OPINION: The French are right to shun air conditioning - even during heatwaves
Briefly

France's recent heatwave ignited a debate on air conditioning, revealing a cultural resistance to AC despite rising temperatures. Marine Le Pen's Rassemblement National proposes a comprehensive AC plan, but many in the left and center are opposed to this broad solution. Experiences during heatwaves reveal the dangers of extreme heat, including sleepless nights and health risks. Cities like Paris, which lack design strategies for heat management, struggle with increased discomfort and pollution during these events. The cultural outlook towards heat as 'lovely' is challenged by the realities of climate change.
The first nationwide heatwave of 2025 in France sparked a fierce political debate on air conditioning, highlighting the country's resistance to widespread AC solutions.
Marine Le Pen's Rassemblement National proposes a 'grand plan for air conditioning', but left and center politicians urge caution against a one-size-fits-all approach.
Heatwaves can be scary and even fatal, causing sleepless nights, uncomfortable city temperatures, and thick pollution, particularly in cities like Paris.
The design of Parisian streets does not support airflow, reflecting a cultural resistance to adapting living conditions for increasing heat.
Read at www.thelocal.fr
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