Share to ClassroomHeatwave Reopens Europe's Air Conditioning Debate
Europe is having its worst heat wave ever. In Germany, it reached 41.7°C (107°F) . In France, about 1,000 people died in one week. Most were old. So why do few Europeans use air conditioning? Only about 20% of European homes have it. In the United States, it is nearly 90%.
Europe has many reasons. Energy costs a lot there. Governments prefer other ways to keep cool, like shade and cooling centres. One expert says air conditioning is not the answer. It pushes heat outside and warms the planet. The topic is also political now. Some parties say leaders ignore people's lives.
Health experts want a better plan. Cooling should go first to hospitals and schools. These steps have cut heat deaths by 75%. More than half of homes in Italy and Spain have air conditioning. In France, only 24% do. Some scientists fear only rich people will stay cool.
