In this podcast, we talked to IOR Fellow Brian Churchyard about the complex balancing act that food retailers are facing as they work towards a net zero future.  We cover environmental topics such as the interplay between direct and indirect emissions, the need to look at whole life cycle costs, as well as energy use profiles – and discuss where refrigeration fits in. What are the challenges around finding simple, cost-effective engineering solutions and what does the future look like for low carbon retail refrigeration?  Brian is passionate about the opportunities for engineers to address these types of challenges, the contribution that service engineers are making and the positive impact of a successful refrigerant containment strategy.  Brian also shares some good advice for anyone who wants to make a difference in the journey to net zero in any sector or role.   

 

The Institute of Refrigeration podcast channel is called “The Tip of the Iceberg”. It explores with industry leaders, some of the critical issues facing the refrigeration, air conditioning and heat pump sector in the UK.  It will contain news, views and insights from the business and engineering experts driving innovation and change in our sector. 

In the first episode we talked with Professor Graeme Maidment and new IOR Trustee Catarina Marques at the ASHRAE winter conference - largest gathering of refrigeration, air conditioning, heat pump experts in the world.  Graeme and Cat shared what it's like to be back at international events, what they learned there about motivation and collaboration, and why international problems like reducing the carbon impact of buildings, improving diversity and addressing covid safety, will need international solutions and new ways of working.   

You can find all of the podcast episodes at https://tipoftheiceberg.podbean.com/ Please like, share and follow.

It is also available on spotify and google.

 

Recent posts

ISA Website

IOR Launches Industry Skills Alliance

13 Feb 2026

This new strategic education and skills forum is designed to align training provision with the needs of employers across the sector and to act as the industry’s authoritative voice to awarding bodies, government, and policy stakeholders.

Education
LJC

IOR President Focuses on People and Skills at the Annual Dinner

13 Feb 2026

During her speech at the IOR Annual Dinner on 12th February 2026, IOR President Lisa-Jayne Cook FInstR reaffirmed the Institute’s commitment to placing members and skills at the forefront of its agenda.

Live event
IOR Awards 2026

The IOR Recognises Outstanding Achievements at the 126th Annual Dinner

13 Feb 2026

At its 126th Annual Dinner in London on 12 February 2026, the IOR celebrated exceptional individual achievements that have advanced the RACHP sector. It also recognised an organisation demonstrating a strong commitment to sustainability through the IOR Beyond Refrigeration Environmental Award.

Live event
125BookCover

IOR Anniversary Book Now Available for Pre Order

13 Feb 2026

The IOR’s 125th Anniversary Book is now available for pre‑order. Secure your copy today and enjoy a remarkable journey through 125 years of the Institute’s history!

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IOR Dinner 126 Square Banner 1080x1080px web

The IOR Is Looking Forward to Seeing You at the Annual Dinner

12 Feb 2026

We look forward to seeing you tonight (12th February 2026) at the Hilton London Bankside for the 126th IOR Annual Dinner.

Live event