Every grocery store shelf is stocked thanks to an intricate network of cold storage warehouses, distribution centers, and food processing facilities that work behind the scenes. These industrial refrigeration systems are essential for preserving perishable goods, ensuring food safety, and minimizing waste from the moment food leaves the farm to when it reaches the consumer. Without this infrastructure, supply chain disruptions would lead to massive food loss and potential shortages.
The Scale of Industrial Refrigeration
The U.S. cold storage industry is massive, with over 900 refrigerated warehouses nationwide, clocking in at over 100 million cubic meters of capacity. These facilities store everything from fresh produce and dairy to frozen meats and pharmaceuticals, making them a critical component of the food supply chain. They also play a key role in addressing food access challenges, helping to supply food banks and underserved communities with fresh and frozen goods. In regions where grocery access is limited, reliable cold storage can bridge the gap, ensuring nutritious food reaches those who need it most.
Climate Impacts of Industrial Refrigeration
Like grocery store refrigeration, industrial systems rely on refrigerants—many of which have high global warming potential (GWP). Leaks from these systems contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, amplifying climate challenges. Additionally, the energy required to maintain low temperatures at scale makes industrial refrigeration one of the most energy-intensive segments of the supply chain.
The Path to Lower-Impact Cold Storage
The good news? Solutions exist. By transitioning to low-GWP refrigerants and improving refrigerant management, industrial facilities can dramatically reduce their emissions. Energy-efficient system designs, leak detection technologies, and better maintenance practices can also cut costs while reducing climate impact. Therm has been at the forefront of this shift in commercial refrigeration, and now, we’re expanding our efforts into industrial applications.
Reducing emissions from cold storage is crucial for future-proofing the food supply chain. As demand for refrigeration grows, especially with increased reliance on e-commerce grocery fulfillment and global food distribution, adopting climate-friendly refrigeration solutions will be essential to maintaining both food security and environmental responsibility.
At Therm, we’re working with industry leaders to drive this transition, ensuring that the refrigeration systems keeping our food fresh are also part of the climate solution.