ATLANTA - In recognition of shared technical interests, the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) and the Chinese Association of Refrigeration (CAR) have agreed to work together to promote the interests of HVACR professionals. A memorandum of understanding has been signed between the two associations.

"The best way to solve the problems facing the building industry today is by working together," said Lee Burgett, ASHRAE president. "Carrying out these objectives will allow ASHRAE and CAR to find solutions to those problems, such as energy conservation, improving the quality of life for people around the world."

"In signing this agreement, ASHRAE and CAR will make all efforts to develop the refrigeration of our two countries and the world and create a bright future," said Jin Jiawei, vice president and secretary general of CAR. "I believe we will have a successful cooperation."

The agreement can be viewed under the "About ASHRAE" section of www.ashrae.org. Objectives include:

Maintain effective and timely communication to optimize cooperative efforts mutually beneficial to each organization's respective members;

Support cooperative standards development to benefit the global refrigeration industry;

Encourage continuing dialogue between ASHRAE and CAR at all organizational levels; and

Promote the continued advancement of the science and technology of refrigeration by supporting each organization's respective research and technology programs.

Publication date: 06/26/2006