Natural Refrigerants on the Rise: CO2

The global shift toward sustainable refrigeration is accelerating, and carbon dioxide (CO2) is leading the charge as businesses across multiple sectors embrace natural refrigerant technology.

We sat down with Mat Noon, Divisional Director for Integral Cooling Tech to find out more about what’s driving this change.

What are the driving forces behind CO2 adoption?

“Several factors are converging to make CO2 refrigeration systems more attractive than ever. Regulatory pressure continues to mount against synthetic refrigerants with high global warming potential (GWP). CO2, with a GWP of just 1 compared to much greater numbers for synthetic alternatives, offers a future proof solution that keeps businesses ahead of compliance requirements.

The technology itself has matured significantly. Modern CO2 Transcritical & Sub Critical systems deliver excellent energy efficiency even in warm climates, addressing early concerns about performance limitations. Advances in system design, compressor technology, and controls have made CO2 systems competitive with or superior to traditional refrigerants in terms of operating costs and reliability.”

What real benefits are you seeing across different industries?

“Supermarkets and grocery chains are among the earliest and most enthusiastic adopters.

Cold storage warehouses are also now adopting and benefiting from CO2’s exceptional heat transfer properties at low temperatures, making it ideal for frozen storage applications.

As for industrial users, the long-term cost predictability is a key benefit from CO2, as prices remain stable compared to the volatility seen with synthetic refrigerant markets. Food processing facilities also benefit from the system’s ability to meet strict food safety standards while reducing environmental impact.”

Why should businesses consider transitioning to natural refrigerants? What do they need to consider?

“For businesses operating facilities with aging refrigeration systems, transitioning to CO2 technology requires careful planning and involves new system installation. While CO2’s higher operating pressures mean existing HFC equipment cannot be directly converted, strategic planning can minimise disruption and optimise your investment.

The key is timing your transition strategically. Facilities can coordinate CO2 system installations during planned maintenance windows, facility expansions, or when existing equipment reaches end-of-life. This approach avoids premature equipment disposal while ensuring you don’t reinvest in soon-to-be-obsolete HFC technology.

A phased implementation approach often makes sense for larger facilities. Businesses can install CO2 systems in new sections or replace aging equipment zone-by-zone, maintaining full operational capacity throughout the transition. This spreads capital expenditure over time and allows operational teams to build expertise gradually.

Facilities facing upcoming refrigerant phase-outs or anticipating major component failures should evaluate CO2 systems now rather than investing in conventional replacements. Starting with a comprehensive assessment of your current system helps identify the optimal transition timeline based on equipment age, regulatory deadlines, and business priorities.

At Integral Cooling Tech, we conduct detailed feasibility studies that evaluate technical requirements, project timelines, and financial implications. Our goal is to provide you with a clear roadmap that minimises operational disruption while maximising the long-term value of your transition to natural refrigerants. Every facility is unique, and our solutions reflect that reality.”