German doubt over air conditioning usage - common stereotype?
In the heart of Europe, the German railway company grapples with persistent issues of failed air conditioning in ICE trains, a predicament rooted in a unique cultural dynamic.
Germany's reluctance towards air conditioning can be traced back to its cultural identity and environmental values. Air conditioning, often viewed as a symbolically "American" luxury, is seen as inconsistent with traditional German values that prioritise natural ventilation and energy conservation. This perspective is reinforced by environmental concerns and a general preference for energy-saving solutions in Germany [2][4].
For many Germans, air conditioning represents more than just a technical convenience. It is a cultural statement, with some perceiving it as a break from local norms that emphasise sustainability and moderate comfort through design and ventilation. However, as climate change and heatwaves become more frequent, the practical need for cooling is driving a growing demand for air conditioners [3][4].
This demand reflects both the need for cooling and a gradual cultural adaptation towards accepting air conditioning as part of modern living. Yet, debates continue over its environmental cost and alignment with German values [3]. The tension between this growing demand and ongoing cultural resistance indicates a complex transition in societal attitudes towards air conditioning in Germany [3][4].
The cultural scientist, Eva Horn, from the University of Vienna, attributes this skepticism towards air conditioning to cultural habits and the unfamiliarity of entering an ice-cold room [4]. Many people in Germany perceive air conditioners as harmful due to concerns about draft, dry air, cold risk, and noise.
Despite these concerns, the demand for air conditioning is on the rise. In 2024, production of air conditioning devices in Germany increased by 92 percent to nearly 317,000 units. Significantly more air conditioning devices were imported into Germany, with the value of goods increasing by almost 50 percent since 2019 [4].
However, the adoption of air conditioning is not uniform across all sectors. Many offices, shops, hotels, restaurants, and hospitals in Germany lack adequate air conditioning, while the Berliner Verkehrsbetriebe (BVG) does not use air conditioning in its U-Bahns due to them being uneconomical and environmentally damaging [4].
As the demand for air conditioning grows, so does the debate about its environmental impact. Air conditioning consumes large amounts of energy, contributing to climate change. Yet, in cities like Dubai, Athens, Madrid, Bangkok, and Singapore, air conditioning is a normal part of life, contributing to their economic growth [4].
In the private sector, there is an increasing willingness to invest in air conditioners. However, no change is expected in public administration and similar institutions. The mentality in Germany is to endure heat rather than fight it, leading to diminished concentration and reduced performance [4].
In the face of climate change and increasing heatwaves, the debate about air conditioning in Germany is far from over. As cultural attitudes continue to evolve, the future of air conditioning in the country remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: the need for cooling is becoming increasingly important.
