India, home to 1.4 billion people, is grappling with the dual challenge of extreme heat and rising demand for air conditioners (ACs). As temperatures soar and heatwaves become more frequent, the paradox unfolds: the hotter and wealthier India becomes, the more ACs it needs. However, this surge in AC usage contributes to a vicious cycle, escalating the climate crisis.
Ramesh, a 34-year-old bricklayer in western Delhi, exemplifies this dilemma. During scorching temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius, he borrowed a significant portion of his monthly salary to purchase a second-hand AC, emphasizing the urgent need for cooling solutions. By 2050, as climate experts project India to surpass survivability limits, AC demand is anticipated to surge nine-fold, surpassing all other appliances.
India’s Predicament
•India emits nearly 2.4 billion tons of carbon dioxide annually, contributing 7% to global emissions. As AC usage escalates, compounded by the use of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) and high electricity consumption, the nation faces a challenge in balancing economic growth with environmental responsibility.
•Heat Stresswith over 50% of the workforce employed in agriculture, rising temperatures pose a significant threat. By 2030, India might witness 34 million job losses from heat stress, disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations and emphasizing the need for sustainable cooling solutions.
•International Cooperation and Emission Reduction while India did not sign a pledge at COP28 to cut emissions from cooling systems, it has taken steps under the Kigali Amendment to phase out HFCs. The challenge lies in ensuring that cooling solutions align with economic goals and do not impede development.
•To mitigate the demand for cooling, sustainable strategies such as planting trees, incorporating water bodies, and promoting clever ventilation are suggested. Passive cooling measures could potentially reduce the demand for cooling by 24% by 2050, offering cost savings and emission reductions.
•India aims to reduce power demand for cooling by 20-25% by 2038, showcasing a comprehensive Cooling Action Plan. The country emphasizes proactive and urgent measures to address cooling demand growth while aligning with broader climate ambitions.
Despite facing challenges, India remains proactive in seeking climate solutions and scaling up its climate ambitions. The dilemma lies in fostering sustainable development without burdening developing nations disproportionately. As the world grapples with climate change, finding a delicate balance between economic growth, technological innovation, and environmental sustainability becomes imperative.
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