The main subject of this original work is the analysis of all refrigeration installations (industrial, commercial or residential) in what concerns “sustainable development”, something that affects us all as well for the conservation of food safety (cold chain), as for comfort applications (air conditioning). It offers new ideas on ways to achieve a more rational energy use and, on the other hand, it points researchers and industrialists towards innovative techniques which allow for the reconciliation of an effective cold chain and respect for the environment. This 136-page essay, written by one of the most renown refrigeration experts in France, comes at the ideal moment, when the industry celebrates the centenary of the 1st International Congress of Refrigeration.