France Confronts Extreme Heat: Far-Right Proposes Radical Cooling Measures Amid Record Temperatures
Across the globe, and especially in France, a unprecedented and dangerous heatwave is taking hold, drawing attention not only to environmental challenges but also to political debates. With temperatures soaring to critical levels — in Paris reaching 36°C and elsewhere climbing up to 40°C — the country is facing severe health risks and infrastructure strain. The French government issued unprecedented heat alerts across 84 out of 101 departments, warning citizens of dangerous heat conditions. Amid this crisis, Marine Le Pen, leader of the extreme right National Rally, proposed an ambitious and controversial plan to combat the heat: large-scale installation of air conditioners throughout the country. She emphasized that Europe and France are suffering from this heatwave and accused the establishment of inequality, highlighting that while ordinary citizens endure sweltering conditions, elites have access to cooling and comfort. Le Pen criticized the situation where families are being told to cease working or seek shelter in air-conditioned venues like cinemas. Her party, the National Rally, and its representatives, including deputy Frédéric Falcon, asserted that their goal is to ensure widespread access to air conditioning in homes, schools, elderly care facilities, and public institutions. They acknowledge that France lags behind southern European countries, especially in regions of southern France, in climate adaptation strategies. According to the European Climate Service Copernicus, last year set record-breaking heat months, contributing to nearly 50,000 deaths in Europe due to heat-related illnesses in 2023. Scientists warn that the planet has crossed a critical threshold, with global temperatures rising by more than 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, signaling a dangerous shift in Earth's climate system. In response, the French government is promoting energy-saving measures, including eco-friendly cooling strategies such as urban greening, building insulation, and innovative solutions like geothermal cooling systems set to be used during the Olympic Games. Experts warn that the relentless rise in temperatures is a direct consequence of climate change caused by greenhouse gas emissions, and urgent, comprehensive action is needed to prevent catastrophic consequences for future generations.