Historian Warns: Air Conditioning Heats Up Earth Further
The short version
Historian Jan Eike Dunkhase warns that the increasing use of air conditioning is increasing global warming. In an interview with the FAZ, he explains the historical and ecological connections between cooling technology and climate change.
Historian Jan Eike Dunkhase says that the increased use of artificial cooling is accelerating global warming.1 In an interview with the FAZ, Dunkhase explains that air conditioning systems cool homes, but at the same time increase energy consumption and thus the emission of greenhouse gases.1 According to Dunkhase, there are historical links between cooling technology and colonialism, for example through the use of cold chains in the global commodity economy.1
DW reports that efficiency, refrigerants and electricity costs are decisive factors when purchasing air conditioning systems.2 DW explains that mobile monoblock devices and split units are the two main types of air conditioners used in homes.2 According to DW, the efficiency of air conditioners depends heavily on the choice of refrigerant, which affects both cooling performance and environmental impact.2
“"The more artificially cooled, the warmer it gets on Earth"”
Why it matters
An air conditioner is a device that cools and dehumidifies indoor air to create thermal comfort. It is used in homes, offices and vehicles.2
Refrigerants are chemical compounds that absorb and release heat in air conditioners and refrigerators. Some refrigerants contribute greatly to the greenhouse effect.2
This account was written from the 2 reports listed below, filed by 2 independent outlets, and checked against them line by line. It is not a copy of any one of them. Spotted an error? Tell us.
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