The Nightmare of '40°C Heatwaves'… 'Air Conditioning' Debate Spreads to Politics

Last week, Europe was gripped by a nightmarish heatwave that saw temperatures reach 40°C (104°F).

Many Europeans fought against the worst heatwave in history in buildings without any cooling facilities, yet many still hold negative views toward the use of air conditioning.

[Paris Resident (Opposing air conditioning installation): We have long pledged not to further negatively impact climate change, so (installing air conditioning) is merely a short-term solution for our personal comfort.]

However, as people face murderous heat unlike anything they have experienced before, an increasing number of people are now accepting air conditioning as a necessity rather than a luxury.

In Paris, France, it is virtually impossible to find air conditioners in stores, and even if purchased online, one must wait at least a month.

Prices have already more than doubled compared to two months ago.

[Paris Resident (Supporting air conditioning installation): My apartment is south-facing and on the top floor, so it gets incredibly hot inside. I finally managed to get an air conditioner after the last heatwave, and thanks to it, it is much more bearable now.]

The debate over air conditioning among European residents has also spread to the political sphere.

The controversy is particularly intense in France and the UK, which are known for their strict regulations on air conditioning installation.

French far-right politician Le Pen advocated for the installation of air conditioning, stating that it is shameful that children, patients in hospitals, and the elderly have to endure such heatwaves. London Mayor Khan also argued that schools and hospitals must be equipped with cooling facilities.

However, French Minister for Climate Transition Barbier expressed a negative view, stating that air conditioning does not prevent wildfires or crop damage. Paris Deputy Mayor Foulbar also voiced opposition, stating that having air conditioners that emit heat and gas installed on walls, as seen in American cities, is not Paris's goal.

Nevertheless, as a consensus grows that cooling facilities are at least necessary in places like hospitals and schools, the heatwave, which had briefly subsided, is forecast to hit Europe again this weekend. The air conditioning debate sparked by the 40°C (104°F) heat is expected to reignite.

(Video Editing: Jung Seong-hun)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.