As the industry continues to deal with f-gas issues, recognition continues to come to refrigeration systems using CO2 as a refrigerant.

The Japanese convenience store chain Lawson received a prize at the 15th Ozone Layer Protection and Global Warming Prevention Awards conducted annually by Nikkan Kogyo Shimbun. The Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Award was given in recognition of Lawson’s activities related to the installation of refrigeration using CO2 in 50 stores throughout Japan.

As part of the recognition, it was noted that Lawson systems using CO2 as a refrigerant had 25 percent savings in total energy for cooling equipment and an 11 percent reduction in the store’s total energy consumption. According to a statement from the supermarket chain, the findings were verified and evaluated by a committee of refrigeration experts.

 Lawson also has launched the CO2 refrigerant study group. The study group investigates implementation of European benchmarks that will serve as reference in the future standardization of CO2 refrigerant installations in Japan.

For training service technicians in working with CO2, Lawson developed a training program for CO2 technology installation and maintenance including specialized seminars and workshops.