The increasing frequency of heatwaves across Europe has reignited the debate over the role of air conditioning as a climate change adaptation measure. An analysis by Carbon Brief explores the key arguments shaping this discussion and concludes that the relatively low uptake of air conditioning across much of the continent is primarily the result of historical and climatic factors, rather than political or cultural restrictions.

While the wider use of air conditioning is expected to help reduce heat-related mortality, particularly in hospitals, care homes and educational facilities, it also raises challenges related to energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions and the intensification of the urban heat island effect.

The article emphasises that effective adaptation requires a balanced approach combining active cooling with passive measures such as building retrofits, external shading, natural ventilation and the expansion of green infrastructure. It also highlights the importance of deploying highly efficient cooling systems powered by decarbonised electricity, alongside public health policies and climate-responsive urban planning to strengthen resilience to extreme heat.

_{Image source: Air conditioners on the wall of a house in Corsica, France. Credit: Dino Fracchia / Alamy Stock Photo}