Europeans embrace air conditioning despite climate guilt

Europeans are increasingly purchasing air conditioners, despite political discomfort over reliance on Chinese imports and the technology's contribution to global warming. Currently, about 12% of Earth's land area is uninhabitable due to deadly climate conditions, projected to exceed 45% by 2100, affecting at least 44% of the world's population. The World Health Organization reports 489,000 heat-related deaths between 2000 and 2019, with 45% in Asia and 36% in Europe. While heat deaths are far fewer than the estimated 4.6 million annual cold-related deaths, they are expected to rise steadily, potentially rendering hundreds of cities unliveable by century's end. Historical cooling methods include Egyptian water-drenched reeds, Roman aqueducts, and Seville's narrow streets, fountains, and siestas. Air conditioning remains crucial for affordability in tropical regions.