Stan Cox, a scientist and Ecosphere Fellow at the Land Institute, has gone 25 years without air conditioning, even during scorching summers. He believes this drastic measure can help fight climate change and is urging Americans to do the same.
Cox explains that air conditioning isn’t just a way to cool homes; it’s also a major contributor to global warming. About 90 percent of U.S. households use air conditioning, and the greenhouse gases produced make summers even hotter.
In a guest essay for The New York Times, Cox argues that people can stay cool without air conditioning by using simpler methods. For instance, he relies on things like using lawn sprinklers, fans, and staying outside to escape indoor heat.
When temperatures rise, Cox and his wife lightly spray water on themselves to cool off. They also take cold showers or use a lawn sprinkler, which helps reduce their body temperature naturally.
Cox advocates for electric fans, which don’t use refrigerants that harm the environment like air conditioners do. Fans provide relief without contributing to global warming.
In addition to avoiding air conditioning, Cox reduces the use of heat-producing appliances. He avoids dishwashers, saying they create extra heat and humidity, which makes indoor conditions worse.
Although Cox can’t unplug his refrigerator, he sets it to just below 40 degrees. This reduces energy consumption and prevents it from adding unnecessary heat to the house.
Cox believes that people can adapt to living without air conditioning over time. He explains that humans have evolved to tolerate varying climates, and with time, our bodies can adjust to warmer temperatures.
By making small changes, like using fans and cutting down on appliance use, Cox says that people can make a big impact. He believes reducing air conditioning use is key to battling climate change.
The more people limit their use of air conditioning, the easier it becomes to live without it, according to Cox. He urges Americans to take the first step, believing that with practice, they’ll find it more comfortable than they might expect.
