Why some Europeans resist air conditioning, even amid deadly heat waves

Key Points:

• France's recent record heatwave has been linked to around 1,000 deaths, primarily among the elderly, highlighting the growing heat danger across Europe, which has the world's oldest population and is warming fastest globally.
• Europe experiences more heat-related deaths per capita than any other continent despite having fewer hot days, with over 1,300 excess heat-related deaths reported since June 21, according to the WHO.
• While air conditioning can reduce heat-related deaths by 75%, only about 20% of Europeans have it at home, compared to 90% in the U.S., and experts caution that widespread AC use may worsen long-term warming due to increased heat emissions and higher energy costs.
• European governments are investing in alternative cooling solutions like public cooling stations and wearable technology to monitor vulnerable populations, with Italy being an exception, having 56% of homes equipped with air conditioning and accounting for a third of the EU's AC electricity use.
• Many Europeans prioritize environmental concerns over personal comfort, with some willing to endure heat for the sake of future generations, reflecting a broader commitment to sustainable adaptation strategies.