In one sentence—what does ASHRAE exist to do?

• A. To serve humanity by advancing the arts and sciences of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, refrigeration and their allied fields
• B. To maximize profits for members
• C. To regulate building codes in member jurisdictions
• D. To fund private sector technology exclusively

Answer: (A)

ASHRAE exists to serve humanity by advancing the arts and sciences of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, refrigeration and their allied fields. That mission underpins its work—developing standards, sharing research, and offering education to improve indoor environments, energy efficiency, and safety. The other ideas miss the heart of ASHRAE: it is a professional, nonprofit society that does not regulate building codes (that authority rests with governments and code bodies, though ASHRAE standards influence codes). It also does not fund the private sector exclusively; research and education are supported across public and private sectors and academia.