France's Green Party reverses stance on air conditioning amid record heatwaves

France has faced extreme heat in recent years, with record temperatures pushing the country to take urgent action. On 23 June 2023, the hottest day since 1947 was recorded, and over half the country was placed under the highest heat alert. In 2022, politicians on the Right called for air conditioning in schools and hospitals as dangerous heat conditions became more frequent. At the time, Green politicians opposed the widespread installation of cooling systems during the severe heatwave.

Now, many Green politicians have changed their position. Marine Tondelier, national secretary of the Green Party, has acknowledged the need for air conditioning in schools, hospitals, and other public services. She stated that it should not be the primary solution but an emergency response to extreme heat.

Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu recently announced stronger mobilisation of the healthcare system to cope with the rising temperatures. The shift in stance among Green politicians has drawn attention to their past resistance to similar proposals. The growing acceptance of air conditioning as a necessary measure reflects the increasing challenges posed by extreme heat. Public services, including schools and hospitals, are now seen as requiring cooling systems to ensure safety. This change in policy highlights the evolving response to climate-related risks.