Are sustainability goals really difficult, costly, or even impossible to achieve?

1. I need a larger electricity supply if I replace my installation’

The misconception:
Going green means installing larger cooling systems and therefore requiring a heavier power supply. This is often unavailable or extremely expensive.

The reality:
Modern refrigeration systems with natural refrigerants, such as ammonia, are often much more energy efficient. This means that you can run a more powerful and reliable system with the same power supply. Therefore, in many cases, it is possible to become more sustainable without increasing your network capacity. This makes the transition not only feasible, but also more affordable than expected.

2. ‘There is nothing wrong with my current cooling system’

The misconception:
Is there are no problems, why change it?

The reality:
As long as everything is running smoothly, you can continue to use your existing installation with synthetic refrigerants. However, these are set to be phased out in the coming years. Are you aware of the risks involved? If there is a leak or defect due to an accident or metal fatigue, it will be difficult or impossible to obtain the correct refrigerant. Using blends is not an option as they create different conditions that affect product quality and capacity. Although agricultural entrepreneurs often rely on their regular installer, they may not always provide the most up-to-date or sustainable solutions. This can lead to ignorance and unnecessary risks. Therefore, sustainability is not a luxury, but a risk management tool

3. ‘My cooling system is too old or unsuitable for conversion’

The misconception:
I have to build everything from scratch because my existing cooling system cannot be made sustainable.

The reality:
In practice, many existing storage systems can be converted to use natural refrigerants. If you opt for technologies that do not depend on outside air, smart, cost-effective solutions can often be found within the existing infrastructure. You can future-proof your storage system without rebuilding it from scratch.

4. ‘I still have plenty of time to make my storage sustainable’

The misconception:
The rules surrounding refrigerants won’t change for a few years, so I will wait a while.

The reality:
The phase-out of synthetic refrigerants is already well underway. Prices have now exploded or supply has stopped for many types, particularly R404A and R507. If your cooling system breaks down, you will be left empty-handed, especially during peak season. Becoming more sustainable takes time – on average six months from planning to commissioning – so those who leave it too late will face significant business risks. Early preparation is essential.

5. ‘I have quality products, so I’ll get a good price anyway’

The misconception:
The quality of my products is good, so I don’t need to worry about the storage.

The reality:
Storage conditions largely determine product quality and sales opportunities. Changing weather conditions mean that the outside air is becoming increasingly unreliable. More moisture, fluctuating temperatures and longer warm or wet periods create risks. Modern storage facilities enable crops to be cooled and dried accurately, regardless of the weather. This improves product quality and provides more flexibility in your cultivation and sales strategy.

6. ‘I cannot afford a sustainable storage system’

The misconception:
Sustainability is too expensive and not feasible for my company.

The reality:
Sustainable cooling technology is now being produced on a larger scale, making it cheaper. Furthermore, modern installations consume up to tens of percent less energy. What used to seem like ‘free outside air’ is now proving to be an expensive mistake due to high ventilation losses. Building a storage facility without outside air systems is also simpler and cheaper, as there is no need for complex and expensive roof construction. You can invest the money you save in sustainable cooling technology, or even in a multifunctional storage facility that enables you to respond more effectively to market demand.

Finally: Sustainability is not just a buzzword; it’s a necessity

The good news? It is both technically and financially feasible – but only if you start in good time. Don’t let outdated assumptions or incomplete information hold you back. Take a critical look at your installation, ask your supplier the right questions, and create a plan to make your business future-proof. Need help? We’re here to help.