Future-Proof Refrigeration

13-16 August 2028 | Bristol, UK

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Planning is underway and further details, including the programme, speakers, registration and opportunities to participate, will be announced soon.

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Overview

The refrigeration and cooling sector is changing rapidly. With the global goal of achieving Net Zero by 2050, choosing a low-GWP refrigerant is no longer enough. Future-proof refrigeration must combine low environmental impact with low energy use, high efficiency, reliability, long-term sustainability and circular economy principles.

Taking place in Bristol, UK, from 13-16 August 2028, this conference will explore what the future of refrigeration using natural working fluids should look like from 2028 and beyond.

The programme will showcase the latest developments, applications and future trends in natural refrigerants, while exploring new and innovative opportunities across heat recovery, heat pumps, chillers, process cooling and heat engines, as well as their interaction with more sustainable low-carbon energy sources.

Programme design

Alongside a strong programme of technical papers, the conference will offer a range of opportunities to explore the issues in greater depth and connect with colleagues from across the sector.

Technical tours
Visit relevant technical sites and hear directly from experts about real-world applications, challenges and solutions.

Student networking
A dedicated event will bring together students and early-career professionals through the Women in RACHP network, IIR Careers in Refrigeration and the UNEP International Network for Women in Cooling.

Expert panel discussions
Interactive panel sessions will explore issues that cross traditional topic boundaries, using a relaxed “Coffee Lounge” format to encourage discussion and debate.

Practical workshops
Interactive sessions will address themes including training and capacity building, whole-life costing and international co-operation.

Social programme
Discover Bristol’s fascinating industrial heritage through a programme of social events that connects the history of the city with the technologies and industries shaping its future.

An international platform in Bristol

Bristol offers excellent national and international transport links and proximity to important technical sites relevant to the conference themes.

The conference will bring together leading experts, researchers, industry professionals, policymakers and the next generation of refrigeration and cooling specialists. It will provide a valuable platform for sharing technical knowledge, exploring practical solutions and strengthening international collaboration across the sector.

The conference is being arranged by the Institute of Refrigeration (IOR) and the Institute of Refrigeration Ireland (IRI), drawing on their extensive national and international networks and strong connections with industry, policymakers and technical experts.

With the UK continuing to engage actively in international collaboration on refrigeration and cooling, the conference will also provide an opportunity to highlight the technical advances, energy-efficiency gains and climate benefits being achieved through international co-operation.