REGULARS

3 Editor’ s column 42 Buyer’ s guide 43 Word search

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NEWS

4 Declining ocean productivity and implications for the cold chain and food security

5 AfCFTA’ s future uncertain as key decisions on tariffs and rules of origin hang in the balance

ASSOCIATIONS

6 The journey to a better world: a refrigeration perspective

( Part 3) 8 Reducing trade barriers around AfCFTA 10 Cold chain sustainability in a changing world 12 Panel discussion insights on citrus exports and quality control 14 Research highlights vulnerabilities in cold chain amid load shedding, urges resilience building

FEATURE

16 Getting the most out of FRIGAIR 2025 – a guide

BUSINESS AND TRAINING

28 MSA Safety discusses innovative refrigerant analyser at Chillventa 2024

29 A perfect swing into autumn: 2025 SAIRAC Gqeberha Branch Golf Day

33 The benefits of local manufacturing: insights from Staycold International 36 Copper in HVAC & R

CONTRIBUTORS

38 GCCA Africa Council outlines plan for cold chain growth, food security

40 Why must legislation standards be so laborious and normally ignored in an emergency?

We want to showcase your projects! Get in touch: eamonn @ interactmedia. co. za

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Reflecting on this, it’ s clear that preparing children for an unfathomable future involves focusing on fundamental skills: strong ethics, a good moral compass, business health, and perhaps most importantly, adaptability. These principles apply to all industries, especially those undergoing significant evolution, such as HVAC & R, which is increasingly embracing artificial intelligence( AI).

The role of AI in transforming industries is a hot topic, with many people concerned about job displacement. However, AI doesn’ t necessarily mean the end of jobs; rather, it creates opportunities for new career paths that didn’ t exist a decade ago. In industries like HVAC & R, AI is already having a profound impact by improving system efficiency, automating maintenance schedules and predicting issues before they happen. For instance, smart HVAC systems now use AI to optimise energy usage and reduce costs, and technicians are leveraging AI tools for diagnostics and repairs.

This is not a new concept— historically, technological advancements have led to both job destruction and creation.

Alan Greenspan’ s concept of‘ creative destruction’ illustrates how industries are reinvented by new technologies. For example, when the vending machine was first introduced, it was thought to spell the end of retail sales jobs. Similarly, the rise of the internet was initially predicted to destroy traditional businesses, but instead, it transformed industries and created entirely new ones. Today, HVAC & R is following a similar trajectory, as AI technologies reshape how the industry operates.

AI offers businesses and professionals in HVAC & R the chance to move beyond traditional methods and rethink how systems are managed and maintained. The opportunities for innovation in HVAC & R are limitless, as AI continues to enhance every aspect of the field from design to installation to ongoing service.

This shift requires us to ask new questions. Rather than just asking,“ How can AI make current HVAC systems more efficient?” the real question should be,“ How can we use AI to completely transform the HVAC industry?” Asking bold, forwardthinking questions enables businesses to leverage the full potential of AI. Consider the growing trend of smart homes— AI is not just enhancing how we regulate indoor climate but is also transforming how entire buildings and communities are managed in real time. The next generation of HVAC professionals will need to think beyond traditional repair and installation and instead embrace AI

to help design and manage the future of buildings and urban spaces.

However, just as businesses must adapt, so too must individuals. The future of HVAC & R careers in an AI-driven world will not simply involve technicians following old workflows; it will require new skills and a mindset of innovation. For parents guiding their children, it’ s crucial to recognise the value in encouraging careers that integrate emerging technologies like AI. Industries such as HVAC & R may not be the first careers that come to mind when thinking about AI, but the truth is, this field is rapidly evolving and offers tremendous potential for young people to get involved in cuttingedge work.

There are two key points to remember when considering the role of AI in these industries. First, AI adoption will not happen overnight. While the technology offers groundbreaking benefits, the pace of change can be slow, particularly as people adjust to new ways of working. Just like any transformative shift, businesses and workers need time to embrace the change. Therefore, it’ s important for young people to approach careers in AI-integrated fields with an open mind, understanding that their roles may evolve over time.

Second, as parents, it’ s essential to encourage children to choose partners wisely as they explore career opportunities in emerging technologies. In the rapidly expanding AI sector, there is an abundance

of companies offering new solutions, but not all of them are reliable. Due diligence in choosing the right educational institutions, internships or even future employers in AI-related industries is vital. A strong foundation in technical skills, ethics and business practices will serve them well as they navigate this exciting field.

Ultimately, no matter how technology advances, the core values of great service, strong partnerships and effective management will always be at the heart of any successful career. For children considering a future in HVAC & R or other technology-driven fields, the key to long-term success will be embracing AI as an enabler of innovation, while maintaining the timeless principles of hard work and integrity.

Eamonn