Air Conditioning Skepticism - A Common German Trend?
In contrast to countries like the USA, Germany's approach to air conditioning is shaped by a unique blend of cultural, environmental, and historical factors.
- Environmental Concerns
Germans prioritise environmental sustainability, and the widespread use of air conditioning, especially inefficient systems, is seen as energy-intensive and contributory to climate change.
- Cultural Preferences
Germany's culture of minimalism and simplicity extends to a preference for natural ventilation and less reliance on air conditioning. Public spaces and homes often focus on natural cooling methods, such as shading and insulation, rather than relying heavily on air conditioning.
- Historical Context
Compared to the USA, where air conditioning has been a staple for decades, Germany has historically been cooler, reducing the perceived need for widespread air conditioning. This historical context, combined with a preference for more traditional cooling methods, has contributed to a slower adoption rate.
- Sustainability Policies
Germany is actively working towards reducing its carbon footprint, including initiatives like phasing out coal by 2038 and developing alternative energy sources. This national focus on sustainability discourages excessive use of air conditioning.
- Infrastructure and Design
German buildings are often designed with energy efficiency in mind, which includes features like insulation and advanced window glazing. This architectural approach reduces the need for air conditioning by maintaining a stable indoor climate through passive design.
Despite these factors, air conditioning is becoming increasingly important during heatwaves in Germany. However, many public spaces, offices, shops, hotels, restaurants, and even hospitals lack adequate air conditioning, leading to criticism about its uneconomic and unsanitary nature.
Cultural scientist Eva Horn explains the restraint towards air conditioning in the German-speaking world by citing cultural habits and the unfamiliarity of entering an ice-cold room for Germans. This reluctance is also partly due to historical factors, as cooling was long considered a luxury while heating was more important.
In the public sector, there is no significant change in the willingness to invest in air conditioning. Germany's largest public transport company, the Berlin Transport Authority (BVG), only uses ventilation systems and has not installed air conditioning in its U-Bahns.
Most of those who use air conditioners in Germany opt for mobile devices, known as monoblocks, which are usually cheaper but less efficient than built-in systems. The increasing number of heat pumps, which can also be used for cooling, may make an extra purchase of air conditioning unnecessary for some.
However, air conditioners consume enormous amounts of energy and contribute to climate change, according to Horn. They are often set too cold and perceived as unpleasant due to a standard temperature of 22 degrees Celsius and 50 percent humidity. This negative perception, combined with the country's focus on sustainability, may continue to keep air conditioning at the periphery of German culture.
In comparison, air conditioning is considered normal in countries like the USA and has played a significant role in economic growth in cities like Dubai, Athens, Madrid, Bangkok, and Singapore. Yet, even in Southern Europe and Asia, air conditioning is still viewed more critically than in Germany.
This article is a brief overview of the complex relationship between air conditioning and German culture. For a deeper dive into the topic, consider reading "Climate - A Perception History," published by cultural and literary scientist Horn in 2024.
- The widespread use of more efficient air conditioning systems is encouraged in countries like the USA, where air conditioning has been a staple for decades, as part of an effort to reduce energy consumption and combat climate change.
- In comparison to Germany, the USA's approach to air conditioning is less influenced by historical, cultural, and environmental considerations, as air conditioning is seen as a necessity rather than a luxury.
- The finance sector often sees investments in sustainable home and garden improvements, such as energy-efficient home systems and lifestyle changes promoting health and wellness, as smart investments due to their long-term cost savings and positive impact on the environment.
- In contrast, environmental science and medical-conditions research increasingly emphasize the importance of addressing environmental issues like climate change to maintain public health and wellness, as poor air quality and extreme temperatures can exacerbate a variety of medical conditions.
- Modern businesses are utilizing technology to adapt their enterprises to the challenges of climate change, such as implementing green practices and innovating energy-saving products and services, with the aim of being more sustainable and competitive in the global market.
