ASHRAE and the Institute of Refrigeration (IOR) have signed a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) formalizing the organizations’ relationship, which dates back more than a century.

The new MoU outlines how the two groups will work together more closely and with more defined parameters to continue furthering and promoting the advancements of cooling and heating related technologies. These include but are not limited to research, joint conferences and meetings, training and education programs, publication distribution, and chapter collaboration.

“Strengthening our relationship with IOR is a natural and obvious decision. Both organizations are committed to harnessing and adapting new technologies and research to create a future where the built environment is healthier, more comfortable, and more energy efficient,” said ASHRAE President Tim Wentz, Fellow ASHRAE, HBDP. “The strides our organizations are making to produce a more sustainable world are exciting, and both ASHRAE and IOR are well poised to support each other’s objectives immediately and moving into the future. We are pleased to formalize our relationship with this MoU and look forward to continuing a long association with IOR.”

As part of the agreement, ASHRAE and IOU will explore ways to make technical information more accessible to both memberships. The MoU additionally places special focus on continuing to build and strengthen the organizations’ global networks. As ASHRAE and IOR continue growing their memberships internationally, the possibility of joint events would benefit both groups. According to association officials, co-hosting a conference or meeting would directly support global collaboration that could help further the impact ASHRAE and IOR have on the industries they serve.

“I am proud that we have refreshed the IOR and ASHRAE long-standing relationship through the signing of a new MoU, approved recently by both of our boards,” says IOR President Stephen Gill. “This will underpin future collaborative work for both organizations. ASHRAE and IOR already share much of common interest in that both organizations represent a network of dedicated individuals who have a strong commitment to the advancement of our industry. We look forward to continuing to work closely together in the future, particularly in areas such as improving education and skills, disseminating technical publications, and encouragement of improved standards — especially in refrigeration, air conditioning, and heat pump areas of expertise.”

The MoU was signed by Wentz and Gill as part of the CIBSE ASHRAE Technical Symposium 2017 at Loughborough University on April 6.