Understanding Climate Change and Air Conditioning

What is the main environmental concern associated with the increasing use of air conditioners?

• They consume a lot of water.

• They take up too much space.

• They produce excessive noise.

• They are power-hungry and increase CO2 emissions.

How does extreme heat affect human health and productivity?

• It can worsen chronic conditions and reduce working hours.

• It increases the reliability of infrastructure.

• It enhances decision-making abilities.

• It improves air quality.

Which traditional cooling method involves using narrow streets and courtyards?

• Electric fans

• Mediterranean courtyards

• Stepwells

• Wind-catchers

What is a common feature of buildings in southern Spain that helps with cooling?

• They have large windows.

• They are painted in light colors.

• They use solar panels.

• They have flat roofs.

What is the primary goal in designing buildings for a warming world?

• To increase the number of concrete surfaces.

• To ensure buildings can handle overheating before it happens.

• To create sealed all-glass skyscrapers.

• To maximize the use of air conditioning.

What is a passive cooling measure?

• Using air conditioning as the main cooling method.

• Designing buildings with energy-consuming features.

• Implementing cooling methods that do not consume energy.

• Relying on fossil fuels for cooling.

What is the potential consequence of missing the 1.5-degree target set by the Paris Agreement?

• A reduction in the need for air conditioning.

• An increase in the number of uncomfortably hot days.

• A stabilization of climate conditions.

• A decrease in global temperatures.

Which countries are expected to see the biggest increase in uncomfortably hot days?

• Central African nations

• Northern countries like Switzerland and the UK

• Southern European countries

• South American countries

What is the recommended approach to using air conditioning in the future?

• To replace all traditional cooling methods.

• To increase energy consumption.

• As a technology of last resort.

• As the primary method of cooling.

What is the main benefit of greener, more carefully built spaces?

• They offer savings and improve health and wellbeing.

• They increase the need for air conditioning.

• They are more expensive to maintain.

• They have no impact on health and wellbeing.