ASHRAE’s contribution to the Montreal Protocol has been recognized in conjunction with the 30th anniversary of international treaty to phase out ozone-depleting substances. The United Nations Environment Programme bestowed the Partnership Award to acknowledge ASHRAE’s long-term support and its in role in helping to develop the 2016 Kigali Amendment.

“I congratulate ASHRAE for this well-deserved award honouring its exceptional efforts to support the advancement of technologies which help protect the ozone layer,” Tina Birmpili, head of the UN’s Ozone Secretariat said.

Nearly 100 ozone-depleting substances have been largely phased out of use since the 1987 adoption of the Montreal Protocol, and ASHRAE is commended for its effort in that process. It has collaborated with the UN through a series of work plans and is currently focusing resources and expertise on finding alternatives to high global warming potential refrigerants.

“We could not be more pleased to have earned this recognition,” affirmed Bjarne Olesen, ASHRAE president for 2017-18. “We are proud to be part of this initiative and look forward to continuing our partnership with UN Environment as we work toward a more sustainable built environment.”