Air conditioning hurts health and the environment: it is the result of a recent study by the University of Wisconsin-Madison. We must change our habits. Here are 5 tricks to do less of the conditioner, and cool the rooms in a natural way
The summer heat often leads us to stay indoors by turning on the air conditioning in search of refreshment. The negative consequences are many. Air conditioning is bad for our health because by using it we are subjected to temperature changes.
But the conditioner is doubly harmful. A recent study, conducted by a team of researchers from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, reveals the negative impact due to the climate control of buildings.
Air Conditioning risks
Air conditioning is not just an energy-consuming device: its growing use represents one of the environmental challenges linked to global warming. In 2022, cooling systems were responsible for around 3.2% of global greenhouse gas emissions and accounted for approximately 7% of the world’s electricity consumption. A significant share of this energy is still generated from fossil fuels, further contributing to the increase in atmospheric emissions.
There is also a paradoxical effect linked to the way air conditioners operate: in order to cool indoor spaces, they release heat outdoors. This process can contribute to making urban areas even warmer, worsening the phenomenon known as “urban heat islands”, where temperatures in cities are higher than in the surrounding areas.
The negative effects of air conditioning
A recent study conducted by a team of researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison examined the impact of building air conditioning on air quality and human health.
According to the research, in the United States alone, the use of air conditioning could be responsible for around 1,000 additional deaths every year, mainly due to increased greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution associated with the energy production required to power cooling systems.
Through computer models, the study has measured both air pollution and the health impacts of a warmer climate, revealing that:
- The use of air conditioning increases concentrations of fine particulate matter and ozone in the air;
- Climate change alone increases premature summer mortality due to air pollution;
- The increase in air conditioning is responsible for the further increase in the number of deaths.
In summary, using conditioners increases the greenhouse effect, the air is more polluted due to harmful emissions, and we have negative effects on our health.
5 Ways to Cool Yourself Without Air Conditioning
Air conditioning damages our health and the planet. But how to do without it? Here are 5 simple alternative solutions to cool the house without a conditioner:
1. Minimize heat sources
Especially in summer, it is best to turn off all stoves. Even the computer or the lights, along with other appliances, help to heat the house. And if you use incandescent bulbs, remember to replace them with energy-saving or LED ones.
2. Install ceiling fans
Once the fans are activated, the hot air will be pushed upwards. Consequently, the fresh air will be free to circulate through the rooms.
3. Push the cold air to the upper floors
On the lower floors, the air is always cooler. If you have a cellar, install an independent ventilation system. Through a duct, you can allow fresh air to move from the lower floors to the upper floors. Warm air will instead be forced out of the house by a drain pipe.
4. Close the windows during the day and open them at night
In this way, hot air cannot enter during the day. At night, instead, opening the windows helps us to create refreshing drafts in the house.
5. Plant trees around the houses
For those who have the chance, the advice is to plant trees and climbing plants near the house. In this way, in addition to guaranteeing healthier and cleaner air, you can also take advantage of their shade. Even climbing plants, such as ivy, can drastically reduce the heating of the house. But do not worry, in fact, in winter, the effect is the opposite.
These are 5 simple attentions to make your home fresher. Do you know others? Write them commenting on the article!
Cover Image: foto di Rafael De Nadai, via Unsplash
July 2026 update: This article has been reviewed and updated with new information on the environmental impacts of air conditioning, the energy consumption of cooling systems, and strategies for cooling indoor spaces in a more sustainable way.
