www . refrigerationandaircon . co . za RACA Journal I January 2024 13
Associations emissions . Energy efficiency remains a crucial focus , as it is an integral component of decarbonisation . By leveraging cleaner energy sources and promoting electricity produced from lowcarbon sources , ASHRAE aims to support the decarbonisation of buildings .
To meet the urgent challenges we face , ASHRAE has set ambitious goals to cut carbon emissions in half by 2030 . This target reflects the pressing need for immediate action . The data available today demonstrates that we are not on track to mitigate the impacts of climate change effectively . By prioritising net-zero energy buildings , we can significantly reduce environmental impacts while reaping benefits such as cost savings , enhanced resilience and improved energy security .
While decarbonisation presents a broader perspective , energy efficiency remains a vital component . ASHRAE members need not fear that the focus on energy efficiency will be abandoned in favour of decarbonisation . Both aspects are interdependent and essential to achieve sustainability goals . Buildings consume 35 % of the world ' s energy and emit 38 % of carbon emissions . By prioritising energy efficiency , our industry can make a significant impact on climate change mitigation .
RACA Journal
Buildings consume 35 % of the world ’ s energy and emit 38 % of carbon emissions .
ASHRAE ' S THREE PILLARS FOR DECARBONISATION ASHRAE is dedicated to leveraging its operational expertise to reduce or eliminate greenhouse gas ( GHG ) emissions . The organisation ' s three pillars for achieving decarbonisation are energy efficiency , switching to cleaner energy sources and utilising low-carbon electricity .
• Behavioural change and design guides : Recognising the significance of human behaviour , ASHRAE invests considerable effort in understanding and harnessing its potential for energy savings . Research has revealed that focusing on human behaviour can lead to 10-20 % energy savings . ASHRAE ' s Advanced Energy Design Guides and Zero Energy Design Guides offer valuable design ideas , now freely available for download . Additionally , ASHRAE has reformed its materials to align with social modelling , understanding that humans are inherently inclined to adapt to group behaviour . The Building Energy Quotient ( Building EQ ) measures the energy gap between design and operation , emphasising the role of human behaviour in energy efficiency .
• Adaptability and agility : ASHRAE recognises the need for speed and adaptability in addressing emerging challenges .
Just as a vintage car might evoke nostalgia , it is essential to acknowledge that it may not meet the demands of the future . ASHRAE is committed to becoming faster and more nimble , continuously evolving to keep pace .
• Embracing growth and adaptability : In the words of wisdom from my grandfather , growth and decay are the only two states of being for individuals and organisations . ASHRAE recognises the importance of growth to benefit its members and the communities they serve . This includes eliminating silos , empowering decision-making at lower levels and fostering a collaborative approach through councils , regions and chapters .
ENERGY AND FOOD SECURITY The HVAC & R sector has a significant role to play in ensuring both energy and food security . Energy security is closely linked to energy efficiency , reducing reliance on the grid and mitigating risks associated with extraordinary events . ASHRAE is actively involved in promoting renewable energy sources such as wind , solar and nuclear power , as well as supporting efforts to scale up investments in renewables . By embracing a people-cantered and inclusive approach to energy access , ASHRAE aims to combat energy poverty and its adverse effects .
Similarly , food security is an area where the HVAC & R industry can make a substantial impact . Proper refrigeration has the potential to preserve vast quantities of food , ensuring its availability to those in need . Estimates suggest that refrigeration could save 475 million tons of food , which could feed approximately 950 million people . ASHRAE recognises the importance of refrigeration in addressing food security and continues to work toward innovative solutions in this realm . RACA
www . refrigerationandaircon . co . za RACA Journal I January 2024 13