It’s summer, and the northern hemisphere is experiencing intense heat once again. Temperatures peaked above 40°C in the Mediterranean and around 35°C in the southern USA and Mexico last month [1]. However, with the arrival of September and October, autumn will bring cooler, fresher air, while the southern hemisphere prepares for its approaching summer heat.

Air conditioning is the most common way to cope with heat waves. However, many people are unaware – or tend to forget – of its controversial impact: while it cools our indoor spaces, it also contributes to the increase in global temperatures.

The power needed and chemicals used in air conditioning are the main reasons for its downside. Mark Radka, Chief of the Energy and Climate Branch of the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP), explained that “Much of the existing cooling equipment uses hydrofluorocarbon refrigerants, which are potent greenhouse gasses, and use a lot of energy, making them a double burden for climate change” [2].

The UN’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development does not explicitly address the demand for cooling. However, cooling is closely linked to health, well-being, and economic growth [3]. Extreme hot temperatures are not only dangerous to health but also affect the performance of students and workers by inhibiting learning ability and reducing productivity, especially when individuals are directly exposed to heat-related risks. This is a significant challenge, particularly in developing countries where extreme heat poses significant obstacles [4].

An even more complex challenge is managing the energy required for cooling systems (air conditioning systems and fans). According to the International Energy Agency, air conditioners’ power consumption accounts for 20% of global electricity use, and this demand is projected to triple by 2050, leading to increased emissions [2]. It is also estimated that by 2100, up to three-quarters of the global population will experience life-threatening heat and humidity [5], making air conditioning even more essential. Is there a way to break this escalating cycle?

Calling for action to innovate cooling systems is the first step. Compared to other building technologies like LED lighting and solar panels, air conditioning is where research has made the least progress [6].

In 2018, the Global Cooling Prize was launched to address the threat posed by the growing demand for residential air conditioning. The competition aims to find the most efficient AC system with at least five times less climate impact (5X solution). Several emerging technologies in their prototype stages show potential for lower energy consumption and increased cost-effectiveness, providing an opportunity for reduced climate impact [6]. Eight teams from China, India, Japan, the UK, and the USA have been selected as the Global Cooling Prize finalists. They are currently working on further developing these technologies to make them more efficient and affordable [7].

In conclusion, as the demand for cooling continues to grow, even though this issue is not yet acknowledged in the Sustainable Agenda, air conditioning is increasingly necessary to ensure health and well-being.

Innovation must be the main focus for developing these technologies to balance personal comfort and global sustainability. Some initiatives have already been launched to promote rapid growth in AC system performance. The question remains whether these efforts will be adequate.

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Cover- and preview image: view of a building with AC systems. Kuala Lumpur, 2021. Photo by Kévin Jiner on Unsplash.com.