Challenges and opportunities in the management of refrigeration and air conditioning systems to reduce environmental impacts in the Colombian health sector.

• The characteristics of refrigeration and air conditioning systems in Colombian health sector. • The health sector is interested in promoting adequate refrigeration and air conditioning systems. • The importance of a good design that integrates environmental criteria, regulatory compliance, and energy efficiency. • It is important to perform cost benefit analyses in the selection of refrigeration and air conditioning systems. Refrigeration and air conditioning systems play a fundamental role in the health sector by maintaining necessary climatic conditions through the control of temperature and humidity, and maintaining a clean and germ-free environment that can contribute to the well-being of the patients and prevent the spread of diseases. The health sector is ranked fifth among the highest greenhouse gas emitting sectors worldwide. Thus, the objective of this study is to analyze the challenges and barriers to improving refrigerant and air conditioning systems to reduce the environmental impacts of the Colombian health sector. A sample of 230 answers was obtained from the individual surveys, and 14 focus groups were developed, with an average of 10 to 12 attendees per group. The results indicated that the health sector is interested in promoting adequate refrigeration and air conditioning systems, although different challenges were observed related to knowledge, awareness, qualified personnel, and financial restrictions. Other barriers include the costs and a lack of funding for these systems and a lack of information and knowledge on the latest technologies. The main recommendations for policymakers are associated with the design of guides and materials on the matter, the design of communication and outreach campaigns, the certification and recognition of entities that carry out efficient and environmentally friendly management processes for refrigeration systems, and promote financing instruments and information describing the associated benefits. These results are important for policymakers to promote adequate and efficient strategies and programs for achieving technological changes in refrigeration and air conditioning systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]