In an era of extreme summers, it’s time to look beyond air conditioning

In an era of record-breaking summers, authorities are urging a shift away from solely relying on air conditioning. The Labour Department recently strengthened its Heat Stress at Work Warning system to enable faster responses to extreme weather conditions, especially for outdoor workers. However, the most effective solutions appear to be passive measures like adjusting work schedules, staying hydrated, and seeking shade.

Scientists warn that the increasing frequency of extreme heat events is a result of human activities, with a strong El Nino pattern in the Pacific Ocean contributing to warmer ocean waters and altered trade winds. While all Asian countries have implemented advisory systems to combat heat, the effectiveness varies. Hong Kong, for instance, benefits from air conditioning but faces challenges in retrofitting older buildings due to regulations and energy costs.

In contrast, European nations have struggled due to less reliance on air conditioning and higher energy expenses, leading to an increased focus on passive cooling techniques. The key to addressing extreme heat lies in innovative architectural and engineering solutions. These could include reflective roof materials, shading devices, green spaces, and water features to reduce the urban heat island effect.

Some cities, like Yuncheng in China, are already pioneering low-tech cooling measures like misting systems that provide immediate relief without relying on refrigerants. As technology advances, there's potential for AI and robotics to provide novel approaches to combating climate change. However, it's crucial to remember that the true value of technology lies in its ability to improve human life, not just create eye-catching displays.