ATMO America to Highlight Natural Refrigerant Projects and Trends

The event will cover topics such as refrigeration and heat pump case studies, market trends, project funding, training, PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), and policy updates. Renowned environmental attorney Robert Bilott will deliver the keynote address at this 13th annual edition of ATMO America, scheduled for Monday, June 10, and Tuesday, June 11, at the Mayflower Hotel in Washington, D.C.

Exploring Innovations in Natural Refrigerants

The summit will feature key industry experts, including manufacturers, policymakers, end users, and contractors, who will gather to discuss the latest advancements in natural refrigerant technologies. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about innovative case studies and gain insights into emerging trends in the industry.

Case Studies on Natural Refrigerant Technologies

A wide array of refrigeration and heat pump case studies will be presented, showcasing the use of natural refrigerants such as CO₂ (R744), propane (R290), and ammonia (R717). Leading companies like Energy Recovery, Kysor Warren, Kroger, Copeland, Future Green, Hillphoenix, Güntner, Zero Zone, Amond World, VEIC, and Coolsys will share their experiences with CO₂-based refrigeration systems. Additional presentations will cover CO₂-based heat pump applications from companies like Dorin, Flō Energy Solutions, Intellihot, and Flow Environmental Systems.

Case studies on propane-based refrigeration will be delivered by Tecumseh, TruMed, Embraco, and Structural Concepts, while ammonia-based refrigeration projects will be highlighted by Evapco, ColonialWebb, and Smart Care. Stone Mountain Technologies will present an ammonia absorption heat pump case study.

Insights from Industry Leaders

Leading end users will share their experiences with natural refrigerant technologies, discussing benefits, challenges, and future plans. Speakers include Bob Siler, Operations Engineer at Amazon; Megan Rodriguez, Senior Manager of Refrigeration at Grocery Outlet; Aer Teale, Director of Engineering at Lineage Logistics; and a representative from General Refrigeration.

Market Trends and Training Opportunities

The summit will also cover the latest market trends for natural refrigerants in North America, with representatives from Hillphoenix, Hussmann, Copeland, Kysor Warren Epta US, and Johnson Controls–Frick/M&M Carnot providing insights. A dedicated panel on natural refrigerants-based training and certification will be hosted by Rusty Walker, Training Director at the North American Sustainable Refrigeration Council (NASRC), and Jim Barron, Executive Director at the Refrigerating Engineers & Technicians Association (RETA).

PFAS and Policy Focus

A key highlight of the summit will be Robert Bilott’s keynote address on the global threat of PFAS and its implications for the cooling and heating industry. This will be followed by a panel discussion on PFAS and global warming, featuring experts like Richie Kaur from the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), Mindi Messmer from MedStar Health, Gabriel Salierno from the Toxics Use Reduction Institute, and a representative from ATMOsphere.

Policy and Funding Opportunities

The summit will include a session on current and future policy developments impacting the adoption of natural refrigerants in North America. Speakers from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation will provide updates on regulatory frameworks and funding options, including the $65-million California F-gas Reduction Incentive Program (FRIP).

Recognizing Industry Leaders

The conference will conclude with the ATMO Awards/North America ceremony, celebrating companies and individuals who are leading the transition to natural refrigerant-based technologies. This event promises to be a pivotal gathering for those involved in the sustainable cooling and heating industry, offering valuable insights and networking opportunities.