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Johanna Alkan Olsson outdoors. Photo.

Johanna Alkan Olsson

Social environmental scientist

Johanna Alkan Olsson outdoors. Photo.

Challenges of using air conditioning in an increasingly hot climate

Author

  • Karin Lundgren-Kownacki
  • Elisabeth Dalholm Hornyanszky
  • Tuan Anh Chu
  • Johanna Alkan Olsson
  • Per Becker

Summary, in English

At present, air conditioning (AC) is the most effective means for the cooling of indoor space. However, its increased global use is problematic for various reasons. This paper explores the challenges linked to increased AC use and discusses more sustainable alternatives. A literature review was conducted applying a transdisciplinary approach. It was further complemented by examples from cities in hot climates. To analyse the findings, an analytical framework was developed which considers four societal levels—individual, community, city, and national. The main challenges identified from the literature review are as follows: environmental, organisational, socio-economical, biophysical and behavioural. The paper also identifies several measures that could be taken to reduce the fast growth of AC use. However, due to the complex nature of the problem, there is no single solution to provide sustainable cooling. Alternative solutions were categorised in three broad categories: climate-sensitive urban planning and building design, alternative cooling technologies, and climate-sensitive attitudes and behaviour. The main findings concern the problems arising from leaving the responsibility to come up with cooling solutions entirely to the individual, and how different societal levels can work towards more sustainable cooling options. It is concluded that there is a need for a more holistic view both when it comes to combining various solutions as well as involving various levels in society.

Department/s

  • Ergonomics and Aerosol Technology
  • Housing Development and Management
  • Centre for Environmental and Climate Science (CEC)
  • Division of Risk Management and Societal Safety

Publishing year

2018

Language

English

Pages

401-401

Publication/Series

International Journal of Biometeorology

Volume

62

Document type

Journal article

Publisher

Springer

Topic

  • Energy Systems

Keywords

  • Air conditioning
  • Climate change
  • Sustainability
  • Transdisciplinary
  • Urban areas

Status

Published

Research group

  • Housing Development and Management

ISBN/ISSN/Other

  • ISSN: 0020-7128