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Why air conditioning has become a "culture war" between Europe and the US

2026-06-29 23:55:02Kosova&Bota SHKRUAR NGA REDAKSIA VOX

Why air conditioning has become a "culture war" between Europe and the

The record heat wave that has swept across Europe in recent weeks has not only brought extreme temperatures and consequences for public health, but has also opened a broad cultural debate between Europe and the United States on the use of air conditioning.

In an analysis published by the American magazine " The Atlantic" , journalist Thomas Chatterton Williams argues that the debate over air conditioners goes beyond technology and climate, reflecting different ways of thinking about comfort, sacrifice, and lifestyle.

Europe is bracing for record temperatures, with parts of France reaching nearly 44 degrees Celsius. Authorities are reporting fatalities, with drownings in rivers and lakes while trying to cool off, and hundreds of people hospitalized due to the extreme heat.

As temperatures continue to rise, many American commentators have criticized European countries for their lack of air conditioning systems in homes, schools, and public spaces.

On social media, prominent figures from the world of technology and economics have argued that Europe should invest more in air conditioning to protect the lives of citizens.

According to Thomas Chatterton Williams, the difference between the two continents is not just about climate, but about how societies perceive physical discomfort. Americans tend to see heat as a problem to be solved with technology and infrastructure, while Europeans often consider it a part of life to be endured.

In the US, air conditioning has become an integral part of everyday life. Offices, shopping malls, cars, and homes typically operate at controlled temperatures, often so low that people wear thick clothing even in the summer.

On the other hand, many Europeans see the widespread use of air conditioners as a symbol of excessive consumption and waste of energy. This is also linked to historical traditions of thrift and the collective memory of periods of war, shortages and economic hardship.

The author cites Paris as an example, where historic buildings and urban planning regulations make it more difficult to install air conditioners. In many areas of the French capital, special permits are required for the placement of outdoor units, in order to preserve the city's architectural appearance.

However, he admits that the current heatwave has exposed the limits of this model. Schools without cooling systems have been forced to close, hospital wards are struggling with high temperatures, while public transport and emergency services have been put under immense pressure.

In France, the debate has also taken on political overtones. The far-right led by Marine Le Pen has called for the expansion of air conditioning use, accusing the government and environmentalists of neglecting an issue directly related to the quality of life and safety of citizens.

According to the author, the solution lies neither in the complete rejection of air conditioners nor in their unlimited use. He argues that Europe must adapt to the new climate reality and invest more in cooling systems, especially in hospitals, schools, public transport and other critical institutions.

"Americans may have become too impatient with the heat, but even the categorical rejection of air conditioning is in some cases unjustifiable," the analysis concludes.

The debate over air conditioning is thus becoming a symbol of the greater changes brought about by the climate crisis, challenging customs, cultures, and the way European and American societies understand comfort and adaptation to extreme weather.


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