EmbeddingGemma 2: an open, lightweight multimodal embedding model
deepmind.google·6d ago
AI Engineering
Hacker News·Aug 27·5 min read
Air Conditioning Is Not a Luxury, It Is a Necessity
TL;DR
Air conditioning is a critical technology that has significantly reduced heat-related deaths, yet many European governments still discourage its use, risking lives during extreme heat events.
✦ Why It Matters
Advocate for policy changes that support the adoption of air conditioning in your community.
Key Takeaways
- Support policies that facilitate AC installation in your area.
- Educate others on the health benefits of air conditioning.
- Challenge misconceptions about AC's energy consumption.
- Promote awareness of the dangers of extreme heat.
Full Summary
Air conditioning (AC) has been shown to dramatically lower heat-related mortality, with a study indicating a 75% decline in such deaths in the U.S. during the 20th century. Despite this, Europe faces a rising death toll from heat waves, with over 175,000 fatalities annually, and only 20% of the population having access to AC.
Regulatory barriers, including permit requirements and noise ordinances, hinder AC installation across several countries. Additionally, misconceptions about AC's health effects contribute to its unpopularity, with claims of 'thermal shock' and other ailments being largely unfounded.
Modern AC systems are now more energy-efficient, contradicting the belief that they are wasteful. The article argues that rejecting AC is a step backward in public health and safety.