Global Refrigeration Appliance Makers Race to Cut Carbon Footprint Amid Tighter Eco Rules

Major global manufacturers of refrigeration appliances, from fridges to commercial cold storage units, are accelerating efforts to adopt low-carbon technologies and eco-friendly materials, driven by stricter environmental regulations and growing consumer demand for sustainable products.

The push comes as governments worldwide tighten rules on hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) — potent greenhouse gases commonly used as coolants in traditional refrigeration systems. The Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol, which has been ratified by over 130 countries, mandates a gradual phase-down of HFCs, aiming to reduce their global consumption by 80-85% by 2047. This has forced companies to shift to alternatives like hydrofluoroolefins (HFOs) and natural refrigerants such as propane, ammonia, and carbon dioxide (CO₂), which have significantly lower global warming potential (GWP).

“Consumers are no longer just choosing a fridge based on size or price — they’re asking about its carbon impact, from production to disposal,” said Maria Lopez, a sustainability analyst at Euromonitor International. “Brands that fail to adapt risk losing market share to competitors that prioritize eco-design.”

Leading brands are already rolling out innovations. Sweden’s Electrolux launched a line of fridges in 2024 using CO₂ as a coolant, cutting GWP by over 99% compared to HFC-based models. Meanwhile, U.S.-based Whirlpool announced it will phase out HFCs in all its refrigeration products by 2028 and increase the use of recycled steel and plastic in manufacturing to reduce carbon emissions during production.

In emerging markets, where refrigeration demand is rising rapidly due to urbanization and growing middle classes, companies are also focusing on energy efficiency. India’s Godrej Appliances, for example, introduced a range of “green fridges” that use propane as a coolant and consume 30% less energy than India’s national efficiency standards. These models are designed to work in hot, humid climates while keeping operating costs low for consumers.

The shift, however, comes with challenges. Natural refrigerants like propane are flammable, requiring manufacturers to invest in safety technologies to prevent leaks or fires. Additionally, retrofitting existing commercial cold storage facilities to use low-carbon coolants can be costly, especially for small and medium-sized businesses.

“ The transition is not just about swapping coolants — it’s a complete rethink of how refrigeration systems are designed, built, and maintained,” said James Chen, head of sustainable innovation at Haier Smart Home’s global refrigeration division. “But the long-term benefits — for the planet and for brand reputation — make it essential.”

Industry experts predict that the global market for eco-friendly refrigeration appliances will grow at a compound annual rate of 7.2% between 2024 and 2030, outpacing the overall refrigeration market’s 4.5% growth. This trend is expected to accelerate as more countries implement HFC phase-down schedules and offer incentives for sustainable product adoption.