By Eamonn Ryan
The following is the transcript of a presentation by John Ackermann – previous editor and founder of this publication – on the impact of the cold chain, commemorating World Refrigeration Day on 26 June. It is Part 4 of a four-part series.
On this World Refrigeration Day, stakeholders from the South African Institute of Refrigeration and Air Conditioning (SAIRAC) gathered to highlight their ongoing efforts in promoting sustainable practices within the refrigeration and air conditioning (RAC) sector.
This continuation provides a detailed exploration of John Ackermann’s insights into the challenges and considerations involved in maintaining the cold chain, highlighting the complex issues from product quality preservation to environmental impact mitigation.
Energy efficiency and innovation in the cold chain
Ackermann highlighted the critical importance of energy efficiency and ongoing innovation in the maintenance of the cold chain. He underscored that as global temperatures rise, the demand for effective refrigeration systems intensifies, necessitating a balance between energy consumption and environmental impact.
Ackermann emphasised, “Every stage of the cold chain, from refrigerated vehicles to distribution centers and supermarket cabinets, plays a vital role in maintaining product integrity by adhering to precise temperature controls.” He explained that refrigerated vehicles and containers are specifically designed to uphold these temperatures, ensuring that perishable products like fruits and vaccines retain their quality during transport.
Acknowledging the challenges posed by energy consumption, Ackermann pointed out the strides made in South Africa towards enhancing refrigeration system efficiency. “There have been tremendous strides in improving the efficiency of refrigeration systems,” he remarked proudly. Ackermann highlighted innovations such as the use of CO2, propane, butane, and ammonia—all refrigerants with low Global Warming Potential (GWP). These advancements, he noted, are a testament to the expertise of South African designers and engineers in reducing energy consumption across the cold chain.
He also discussed the impact of load shedding in driving innovation towards more energy-efficient systems. “Load shedding has forced us to rethink how refrigeration systems can use less energy,” Ackermann explained. He illustrated the scenario where a sudden power outage during the cooling of perishable goods could lead to significant losses, underscoring the urgency for reliable and efficient refrigeration solutions.
Moreover, Ackermann emphasised the importance of water conservation in refrigeration processes. “Systems are being developed not only to reduce energy consumption but also to minimize water usage while maintaining consistent temperatures,” he stated. This dual focus on energy and water efficiency reflects ongoing efforts to mitigate the environmental footprint of cold chain operations.
In conclusion, Ackermann called for continued advancements in refrigeration technology and practices, ensuring that the cold chain remains robust, efficient, and sustainable. “South Africa’s commitment to improving refrigeration efficiency is commendable,” he concluded, expressing optimism for future innovations that will further reduce energy consumption and environmental impact.
The comprehensive insights shared by Ackermann underscored the intricate relationship between energy efficiency, environmental stewardship, and the effective operation of the global cold chain—a critical lifeline for ensuring food safety, pharmaceutical integrity, and economic sustainability worldwide.