Cooling has shifted from a luxury to a necessity in our increasingly hot world. A recent UN report highlights this urgency, warning that escalating demand for air conditioning could worsen climate change unless we take sustainable steps. Released during the 30th Conference of the Parties (COP30) in Belém, Brazil, this report paints a concerning picture.
The Global Cooling Watch 2025, created by the UN Environment Programme’s Cool Coalition, predicts that global demand for cooling could triple by 2050. This surge could double emissions to an astonishing 7.2 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalent, unless countries embrace cleaner and more inclusive cooling technologies.
Inger Andersen, the Executive Director of UNEP, emphasizes that as we face more intense heatwaves, we need to view cooling as essential infrastructure—just like water and sanitation. However, merely relying on air conditioning won’t solve the heat crisis. Instead, we should explore energy-efficient, passive, and nature-based solutions.
A Sustainable Cooling Pathway
The report suggests a Sustainable Cooling Pathway that could cut emissions by up to 64% while saving an incredible $43 trillion in future electricity investments by 2050. By rapidly transitioning our power sector to cleaner energy, we might even bring cooling-related emissions down by nearly 97% by mid-century.
Key measures include:
- Passive cooling: Utilizing shading, ventilation, reflective surfaces, and green spaces.
- Low-energy systems: Pairing efficient air conditioners with fans.
- High-efficiency equipment: Accelerating the phase-out of harmful HFC refrigerants.
Implementing these strategies could give an additional three billion people access to safe cooling, especially benefiting those in the Global South, and alleviate strain on power grids.
Equity and Access
Currently, more than a billion people lack proper cooling access. This number could rise sharply by 2050, particularly affecting women, smallholder farmers, and the elderly, especially in Africa and South Asia. The disparity in climate resilience highlights a pressing need for equitable solutions.
Historical Context and Trends
Historically, we’ve seen periods of extreme heat lead to health crises and increased mortality rates. For example, the 2003 heatwave in Europe caused over 70,000 deaths. Yet, today’s technology offers us innovative avenues to tackle these challenges.
As climate awareness grows, public sentiment on social media reflects a desire for greener solutions. Many advocate for smart cooling technologies and climate resilience, pushing governments to prioritize sustainable infrastructure. Devices like smart thermostats and solar-powered systems are trending, demonstrating a collective shift towards eco-friendliness.
In summary, as the world gets hotter, we need innovative and inclusive approaches to cooling. It’s about more than comfort; it’s about survival, equity, and a healthier planet. Focusing on sustainable practices can transform how we cope with heat, ensuring everyone has access to the cooling they need.
For more information, you can read the full report from the UN Environment Programme.
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UN Environment Programme (UNEP),cooling,UNEP,inger andersen,COP30,UNFCCC COP30,COP30 Belem
