-
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
Review on EU Energy Labelling
18 Dec 2025
The European Commission is reviewing the energy label and ecodesign regulations for commercial refrigeration to assess how these Regulations have performed and to identify potential improvements.
News
New IOR Education Outreach Manager
11 Dec 2025
The IOR is pleased to announce the appointment of Matt Harvey as its new Education Outreach Manager to lead education outreach initiatives with schools, vocational colleges, and employers.
News
GB F Gas consultation - IOR response
11 Dec 2025
The consultation will shape future refrigerant use for our sector. Take part in this consultation to make the views of the RACHP industry heard.Â
News
Review of 2025 with the IOR
1 Dec 2025
Check our social media feeds on LinkedIn and Facebook to find out what we've been up to and what you can look forward to in 2026.
News
F Gas Phasedown Reform Consultation - Recording Available
11 Nov 2025
The recording of the webinar featuring DEFRA and industry experts discussing the impacts and opportunities for the RACHP industry following the launch of the UK Government’s consultation on reforming the HFC phasedown under the GB F Gas Regulation is now available.
RecordingSitemap
