Why in News?
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) launched the Cool Leaders Award on September 17, along with new measures to accelerate action on sustainable cooling and heat resilience. These measures include a Global Heat Resilience Roadmap and a Nature for Cooling Challenge, announced at the Global Cooling Pledge Assembly 2026 in Singapore. The initiatives aim to translate commitments under the Global Cooling Pledge into practical action as global demand for cooling continues to rise.
About Sustainable Cooling
Global demand for cooling is increasing rapidly due to rising temperatures, urbanisation and growing access to cooling technologies. By 2050, the number of air conditioners worldwide is expected to reach 5.6 billion, nearly three times today’s level. This creates a challenge because conventional cooling systems can increase electricity consumption and greenhouse-gas emissions.
Sustainable cooling seeks to provide protection from extreme heat while improving energy efficiency and reducing climate and environmental impacts. It involves efficient cooling technologies, climate-friendly refrigerants, renewable energy, passive cooling and nature-based solutions such as urban trees, green spaces and water bodies.
About UNEP Cool Coalition
The UNEP Cool Coalition is a global multi-stakeholder network launched in 2019 to accelerate the transition towards efficient and climate-friendly cooling and strengthen resilience to extreme heat. It brings together governments, international organisations, businesses, civil society and other stakeholders to promote sustainable cooling solutions and reduce the environmental impact of the growing global demand for cooling.
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