Since 2021, CTI, Calibration Technologies,  a Columbia, Missouri (U.S.)-based manufacturer of gas detection equipment, has celebrated International Ammonia (R717) Appreciation Day, on July 17 (7/17).

“It’s grown every year and this year it coincides with the grand opening of our brand-new production facility,” said Debbie Koske, Marketing Manager for CTI, which specializes in ammonia-gas detection. To mark the occasion, CTI will distribute free Kona Ice (flavored shaved ice) to all employees.

International Ammonia Appreciation Day is not a widely recognized holiday, acknowledged Koske, who is doing what she can to “spread the word and encourage others to participate.”

In a Facebook post last year, CTI observed that ammonia “deserves a special day of recognition for its amazing contribution to our global community,” adding, “As an industrial refrigerant, Ammonia is instrumental in the production, preservation, and safe transportation of food. It plays a vital role in feeding the world.”

Moreover, said CTI, because ammonia is a natural refrigerant with a global warming potential and ozone depletion potential of zero, “it is working to save our planet! Thank you, Ammonia!!”

Another company that has celebrated International Ammonia Appreciation Day is Texas contractor RC&E Chill. Last year in a post on its website the company noted that “the obscure industry holiday has been catching on. On 7/17 day we celebrate the Ammonia (R717) refrigeration industry and all our colleagues.”

RC&E suggested that people use this occasion to “show gratitude to your mentors” and “become a mentor.”

[Ammonia] is working to save our planet! Thank you, Ammonia!!”

CTI