Summary of Key Points
This article exposes the deceptive myths that claim Europeans avoid using air conditioning for environmental reasons, aesthetic preferences, or because their climate is more livable. It reveals the true reasons for the extremely low penetration rate of air conditioning in Europe: outdated buildings, a cumbersome installation process that seems almost unbearable, and governments that neglect the basic needs of ordinary people. During extreme heatwaves, Europeans flock to purchase Chinese cooling products (air conditioners, portable fans, etc.), sometimes even resorting to violence over them. The EU headquarters itself illustrates this disparity, with high-ranking officials having access to air conditioning while lower-level staff do not. The article concludes by emphasizing that the essence of civilization lies in caring for the well-being of ordinary people, not in preserving historic buildings or high GDP figures.
1. The Myth of “Environmental Aesthetics”: Debunked
Over 20 years ago, the media portrayed Europeans as being civilized, environmentally conscious, and aesthetically sophisticated for not using air conditioning, suggesting that their climate was so pleasant they didn’t need it. They also suggested that locals collectively resisted installing air conditioning to maintain the elegance of their cities, even implying that China was a country without cultural heritage and rapid economic growth. However, in 2003, Europe saw 70,000 deaths due to extreme heat. Now, when such heatwaves hit, Europeans are desperate for cooling solutions, with even unsightly portable air conditioners selling out quickly and prices rising by 100 euros per unit. The so-called “elegance” has given way to the stark reality of survival.
2. Why is Installing Air Conditioning So Difficult?
The low penetration rate of air conditioning in Europe (for example, only 4%-6% in France) is not due to a lack of desire; rather, the barriers are incredibly high:
- Building Restrictions: Old buildings in cities like Paris are too old and structurally fragile, with exterior walls that do not accommodate air conditioning units.
- Bureaucratic Hell: Installing an air conditioner requires the consent of all building owners, along with a lengthy process of filling out forms at the city hall, reviewing the unit model, location of the outdoor unit, noise levels, and its impact on the building. This complexity often discourages ordinary people from even trying.
- Government Inaction: French ministers have stated that air conditioning does not solve the climate crisis, preferring to issue guidelines for drinking water during hot periods, showing complete indifference to the welfare of the public.
3. The Reality of Extreme Heat: A World of Disparities
During extreme heatwaves, Europe’s double standards and privileges are evident:
- EU Headquarters: Air conditioning in floors 1-7 of the Berlaymont building is turned off, while high-ranking officials on higher floors continue to use it, leading to complaints about a feudal-like system.
- Public Facilities: Many schools and hospitals lack air conditioning, leaving pregnant women, newborns, and patients struggling in the heat. In Belgium, one-fifth of trains do not have air conditioning, forcing cancellations during peak hours.
- Desperation among Ordinary People: On social media, French people post images of pigs in rural China with air conditioning, expressing despair about their own living conditions.
4. Chinese Manufacturing as a Lifesaver
Europe cannot produce enough cooling equipment on its own and relies heavily on China:
- Last year, European imports of Chinese air conditioners increased by 40%.
- Chinese-made portable air conditioners, fans, ice makers, and ice cream machines have become essential items during summer, with sales of cooling products rising by 77% year-over-year.
- Europeans are willing to pay extra (up to 100 euros) to purchase these products, highlighting how quickly their perception of “industrial goods” has changed.
5. The True Essence of Civilization
The article emphasizes that the true measure of a civilization is whether its people can enjoy a cool summer. Europe places more emphasis on preserving historic buildings and environmental protection than on ensuring the basic comfort of its citizens, showing disregard for the needs of the lower classes. In contrast, even pigs in rural China have access to air conditioning, highlighting which society truly cares about the well-being of ordinary people.
(The author also jokes at the end, suggesting that perhaps Europe should use less air conditioning to maintain its historical charm, making it more attractive for tourists… after all, we don’t want them to ruin their “authenticity”!)
This article uses contrasting examples and real-life situations to expose the systemic barriers, privileged attitudes, and indifference towards ordinary people behind Europe’s air conditioning issues, revealing the illusion of a peaceful and civilized West and the underlying hardships faced by many.