SAO PAULO, BRAZIL — Daniel W. Holmes Jr., chairman of the board of directors of the Air-Conditioning and Refrigeration Institute (ARI), outlined five steps being taken to improve the environment while providing industry and consumers with choices that improve the quality of life.

Holmes presented the steps at the Conbrava exhibition of equipment manufacturers held here on October 2.

“Our challenge is on a global scale, but our progress will be measured in achievements at the national level. That is why Conbrava is such an important conference,” said Holmes.

The steps, according to Holmes, are:

  • Development of chillers used for building that rely on non-chlorofluoro-carbon refrigerants to save energy and reduce carbon dioxide production;

  • Redesign of residential and light commercial air conditioners;

  • Access to alternative refriger-ants such as recyclable, nonflammable hydrocarbons;

  • Research to measure refrigerant performance concerning energy effi-ciency and cost effectiveness, using recognized safety standards; and

  • Educating government-level policymakers on environmental and societal benefits of alternative refrigerants.

    • According to Holmes, most nations, including the U.S., are still in the process of transition from CFCs and “restrictions on the use of HFCs will slow the transition to newer, more energy-efficient equipment.”

    Publication date: 10/22/2001