Europe's AC dilemma

Europe is facing a severe heat crisis as record-breaking temperatures expose the inadequacy of infrastructure designed for a cooler climate. Traditional stone and brick buildings, built to retain warmth during harsh winters, now trap heat, effectively turning homes into ovens. While installing air conditioning seems like a logical solution, it faces significant hurdles, including the lack of modern ductwork, high installation costs, and a shortage of skilled technicians. Furthermore, strict regulations protecting historic architecture and concerns over power grid stability and carbon emissions complicate mass adoption. Consequently, many residents are turning to portable cooling units as an immediate, albeit partial, remedy. This shift reflects a broader, painful adaptation to climate change, forcing a reevaluation of urban planning, energy consumption, and daily living habits across the continent.