We propose that the Group of Twenty (G20) enhance voluntary collaboration on cooling. International cooperation for energy-efficient and sustainable cooling requires enhanced G20 joint leadership that strengthens existing initiatives, helps develop synergies, and addresses the new cooling challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic. Safer air conditioning systems and cold chains for vaccines are urgently needed. Stimulus measures can retrofit old buildings and equipment to boost efficient cooling while phasing out harmful refrigerants and promoting a circular economy. To be led by countries with the greatest interest, enhanced collaboration can pool together experiences and expertise enabling more effective policy coordination and impact.
Nicholas Howarth
Former Research Fellow
Nicholas is an applied economist specializing in economic growth, energy and natural resource and environmental economics. He was leading KAPSARC…
Nicholas is an applied economist specializing in economic growth, energy and natural resource and environmental economics. He was leading KAPSARC research on energy productivity and is a subject matter expert on energy efficiency, industrial strategy and energy pricing with KAPSARC Advisory. He has received several awards for his published work, including recognition for his first book on carbon markets by the American benchmarking journal Choice as a top 25 academic publication in the category of economics in 2010. Nicholas is an experienced policy advisory, thought leader and project manager with strengths in interdisciplinary issues and applied policy gained from working as a ministerial adviser in Australia and in a variety of international roles. He is also an experienced lecturer and public speaker on energy productivity, green growth and sustainable development and has presented work at a range of technical and policy fora including meetings of the International Association of Energy Economists and in support of the G20 Energy and Sustainability Working Group and United Nations Sustainable Development Goals processes.
