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Technical
Towards a Circular Economy (Download Latest Version - September 2022) A circular economy is one in which resources are circulated and used for as long as technically and economically feasible, a whole systems approach is used to increase resource efficiency and end-of-life materials are recycled and reclaimed. This policy brief explores the challenges of developing a circular economy for the RACHP sector where most products and equipment that are in use or coming to end-of-life were not designed for circularity. The brief covers topics such as increasing resource efficiency through design, extending product life, materials recycling and reclamation and systems thinking/energy efficiency.
This is the latest in the IOR series of Policy Briefs designed to support users of refrigeration, air conditioning and heat pump technologies to achieve carbon reduction through effective policy implementation, financial incentives, and emissions monitoring.
Our objective is to provide policymakers with
- expert advice from Institute of Refrigeration professionals on effective solutions to aid the move to Net Zero
- the information needed to ensure that policy decisions take into account the interrelation of heating and cooling needs
- realistic and achievable opportunities, solutions, targets and goals for users in this sector
- the necessary depth of understanding of total life cycle and sustainable operation
- advice for non-technical specialists responsible for high-level Net Zero strategies within BEIS and DEFRA / DFE.
Each paper covers a different topic related to the critical issues and ambitions identified in the Beyond Refrigeration Template.
Recent posts
New Guidance Note on Hiring Ex-Military Talent
9 Feb 2026
The IOR has released a new guidance note for those involved in recruitment, development or training within the UK RACHP sector, outlining how to harness the valuable skills that Veterans and Service Leavers bring to the industry and support their introduction into the RACHP profession.
Publication
IOR Report on RACHP Skills, Training and Workforce Now Available
5 Feb 2026
The Institute of Refrigeration has just released a report summarising the key findings and conclusions from its The Future of Training – Right Skills for the Right Job Survey, which it conducted among IOR members in October 2025 to explore future skills and qualification needs within the sector.
Education
Heat Network Upskilling Videos from DESNZ
5 Feb 2026
The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero has recently released a series of upskilling videos for heat networks. These videos are to support upskilling operation and maintenance in the heat networks sector.
News
Getting Started with the IOR Technician App: A Quick Guide
4 Feb 2026
Just downloaded the IOR Technician App? This video walks you through the essentials of using our app, step by step. You’ll see exactly where to tap, how to navigate key tools, and how to get the most out of the app’s main functions. It’s designed to help you feel confident and ready to use the app smoothly from the very start.
News
IOR and CIBSE Sharing Knowledge and Events
3 Feb 2026
The IOR and CIBSE are pleased to announce that they will be working together to provide their respective members with access to relevant technical events in 2026 as part of their commitment to members’ professional development and sharing of expertise.
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