Overview

i2Cool Limited, a Hong Kong‑based climate‑tech company specializing in electricity‑free cooling via passive radiative cooling, participated in the opening ceremony of the 2026 Global Conference of the International Decade of Sciences for Sustainable Development held at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris from 15‑17 July 2026.

Programme Context

The company is a core technology partner of the Fostering Innovation for Resilience and Sustainable Transformation (FIRST) Programme, which is led by City University of Hong Kong (CityUHK) and endorsed by UNESCO as part of the International Decade of Sciences for Sustainable Development (2024‑2033). Ir Prof. Edwin Chi‑Yan Tso, co‑founder of i2Cool, serves as Programme Director, coordinating collaborations among academic institutions, technology firms, NGOs and local communities. The programme focuses on four innovation areas: passive radiative cooling materials, low‑cost printed solar films, waste‑biomass conversion, and human‑powered water purification, supporting several UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Pilot Projects Highlighted

  • Hong Kong – Chong Gene Hang College: Installation of i2Cool’s i2Film electricity‑free cooling window film combined with STEM and ESG‑focused climate workshops for students.
  • Kuzhi Yucai Public Welfare School, Chenzhou, Hunan: Approximately 830 m² of cooling membranes installed on teaching‑building roofs; field measurements showed a maximum roof‑surface temperature drop of 21.6 °C and an indoor temperature reduction of 8.3 °C.
  • Ren Bishi Red Army School, Miluo, Hunan: Over 668 m² of cooling membranes applied, achieving a maximum roof‑surface temperature reduction of 32.8 °C.
  • Beima Primary School, Longkou, Shandong: In partnership with a Towngas volunteer team, about 960 m² of electricity‑free cooling coating applied to the school roof; on‑site testing recorded a maximum temperature difference of 20.1 °C between coated and uncoated roof areas.

These pilots illustrate a repeatable model that couples physical cooling improvements with climate education and community engagement.

Technology Description

Passive radiative cooling materials reflect a high proportion of incoming solar radiation while emitting heat in the mid‑infrared spectrum, delivering cooling effects without electricity consumption or refrigerants. The technology is positioned for schools, community buildings and other public facilities where conventional air‑conditioning is unavailable, insufficient, or costly.

International Recognition

The FIRST Programme and its school‑based applications are featured in UNESCO’s 2026 global report “Science at a Turning Point: International Decade of Sciences for Sustainable Development,” highlighting how university‑company‑community partnerships can translate scientific innovation into practical solutions that advance the Sustainable Development Goals.

Future Outlook

Through the FIRST Programme, i2Cool intends to continue evaluating and adapting electricity‑free cooling solutions for diverse climates, building types and social needs, expanding its network of more than 45 partner organisations across 25 countries with planned activities in Hong Kong, mainland China, Vietnam and Malaysia.