A survey of six European countries reveals that a majority of respondents favor promoting air conditioning over reducing carbon emissions.
Respondents in France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain, and the UK expressed concerns about their ability to keep homes cool during extreme heat, with between 30% and 52% fearing for their household’s health in temperatures near or above 40C. The YouGov poll found that between 61% and 73% of respondents supported installing air conditioning as standard in new homes.
Between 65% and 75% of respondents backed easier installation without needing permission from local councils or landlords, and between 52% and 66% supported government subsidies for air conditioning. In every country except Italy, more people prioritized air conditioning for reducing heatwave harms over lowering emissions.
Why it matters
The findings highlight a growing public demand for immediate climate adaptation measures in European nations.
This section reflects Dumpling editorial interpretation and is provided for context only.
What to watch
Future government policies on air conditioning installation and climate adaptation strategies in the surveyed countries.
This section reflects Dumpling editorial interpretation and is provided for context only.