Paris Deputy Mayor Audrey Pulvar has sparked debate after saying US air conditioning and high greenhouse gas emissions have contributed to the climate conditions behind Europe’s deadly heatwave.
PARIS: A row over US air conditioning has turned into a wider climate debate after Paris Deputy Mayor Audrey Pulvar accused the United States of sharing responsibility for the conditions behind Europe’s recent deadly heatwave. Her comments came after American journalists and social media influencers mocked France for having limited air conditioning in many homes and public buildings while temperatures soared above 40°C.
Responding on Instagram, Pulvar said the US, as one of the world’s largest greenhouse gas emitters, has played a significant role in global warming. She also argued that cities where air conditioning is widely used add to the problem, saying Paris has instead focused on improving energy efficiency and making the city more resilient to climate change. While acknowledging that France also has work to do, she urged critics to “start doing your part” rather than criticising others.
Her remarks quickly divided opinion. Supporters said she was highlighting the global nature of climate change and pushing back against unfair criticism of France’s approach to extreme heat. Others argued that the comments distracted from questions about whether France needs to expand cooling infrastructure as heatwaves become more frequent and intense.
The exchange comes against the backdrop of renewed political tensions over climate policy following the United States’ latest withdrawal from the Paris Agreement. It has also revived discussion about the balance between adapting to rising temperatures and reducing the emissions that contribute to global warming.
Climate experts have long pointed out that while air conditioning can save lives during extreme heat, it also increases electricity demand and can add to greenhouse gas emissions if powered by fossil fuels. As Europe braces for hotter summers, the debate over US air conditioning has become part of a much bigger conversation about climate responsibility, urban planning and how countries can protect people while cutting emissions.
