Europe May Never Be Cool, but It Can Be Air Conditioned
The article argues that European political leaders should abandon their resistance to air conditioning, framing it as a necessary technology for health amid rising temperatures. It highlights recent heatwaves and the health risks they pose, suggesting that cooling systems can mitigate these impacts. The author calls for policy shifts to facilitate wider adoption of air conditioning while balancing environmental concerns.
- ▪European politicians often oppose air conditioning citing its carbon footprint and climate impact.
- ▪Recent heatwaves across Europe have led to increased heat-related illnesses and deaths.
- ▪Air conditioning can significantly reduce heat-related morbidity and mortality when properly deployed.
- ▪Several cities have begun installing public cooling stations to protect vulnerable populations.
- ▪The author urges regulatory reforms to support broader AC adoption without compromising climate goals.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Weather Europe May Never Be Cool, but It Can Be Air Conditioned The continent’s political class needs to get over its aversion to life-saving technology. J.D. Tuccille | 7.6.2026 7:00 AM Share on FacebookShare on XShare on RedditShare by emailPrint friendly versionCopy page URL Add Reason to Google Media Contact & Reprint Requests <img src="https://d2eehagpk5cl65.cloudfront.net/img/c800x450-w800-q80/uploads/2026/07/french-anti-AC-v1-800x450.jpg" style="max-width: 100%; height: auto" width="1200" height="675" title="Paris, France, Deputy Mayor Audrey Pulvar and a row of air conditioners" alt="Paris, France, Deputy Mayor Audrey Pulvar and a row of air conditioners | Illustration: Lionel Guericolas/ZUMAPRESS/Newscom/Midjourney" /> (Illustration: Lionel…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at Reason.com.
Discussion
0 commentsMore from Reason.com
