Insufficient Preparation for Heatwaves: Only 32% of EU Citizens Have Air Conditioning at Home

This year's summer in Europe arrived early, with many regions setting high-temperature records. However, EU citizens' response to the heat is insufficient. According to an EU survey, only 32% of citizens have ventilation or air conditioning systems installed at home. The report, 'Overheating and lack of preparation: The experience of Europeans living with climate change,' released by the European Environment Agency (EEA), points out that climate change poses an increasing threat to the health, well-being, and prosperity of European society. The survey analyzed how citizens cope with heat. Data shows that about 49% use shading, and 48% have added insulation to roofs and walls. Only 32% have air conditioning. Reasons for not installing AC vary, but 38% admitted they cannot afford the installation and maintenance costs. For economically disadvantaged respondents, this rises to 66%. The survey also shows that in the past five years, 49.7% felt overheated at home, 46.8% at work or school, and 60.7% outdoors. Over 52% are worried about future extreme heat. The report emphasizes the need to ensure buildings and living environments are heat-resilient.