This IGSD Background Note summarizes the science supporting the need for fast climate mitigation to slow warming in the near term (2022–2041). It also describes the importance of cutting short-lived climate pollutants and protecting sinks in order to slow self-reinforcing feedbacks and avoid tipping points. It explains why winning a fast mitigation sprint to 2030 is critical for addressing the climate emergency and how the sprint complements the marathon to decarbonize the economy and achieve net-zero emissions.
The Center for Environmental Energy Engineering (CEEE) at University of Maryland, the Climate & Clean Air Coalition (CCAC), Centro Studi Galileo, and the Institute for Governance & Sustainable Development (IGSD) have released the Handbook of Best Practices: Room Air Conditioner Installation for the Lowest Carbon Footprint, which explains how to appropriately install high-efficiency room air conditioners (RACs) for the highest energy efficiency and lowest carbon footprint over the products’ lifetime. This comprehensive, open-source guide has been created for HVAC professionals and their business, government, and residential customers.
With climate change and energy efficiency at the forefront of global conversations, the importance of minimizing the carbon footprint of everyday appliances cannot be overstated. Air conditioning creates comfortable work and living spaces, and in climate hotspots is becoming necessary for human survival. RACs also place significant demands on national energy grids and contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. By focusing on optimal installation, the Handbook offers practical steps to mitigate these environmental impacts.
Topics covered include:
- Energy-Efficient Installation Techniques: Explains how the placement and setup of your AC unit can enhance energy efficiency, ensuring that RACs run at peak performance while using less power.
- Choosing the Right RAC Unit: Takes an in-depth look at selecting high-efficiency, eco-friendly air conditioners that are best suited for different climates and building types.
- Refrigerant Management: Reveals the latest developments on sustainable refrigerants that minimize harmful emissions and promote cooling with lower environmental impact.
- Smart Thermostat Integration: Provides Best Practices for integrating RACs with smart technologies to optimize cooling cycles for reduced energy usage.
- Maintenance and Longevity: Gives tips for maintaining RAC systems to ensure they remain efficient over time, helping to extend their life cycle and reduce the need for replacement units.
The authors welcome suggestions from RAC experts regarding edits and additions as the Handbook is improved and made available for translation to other languages.
