Comment by littlexsparkee
1 day ago
it's the Prisoner's Dilemma - AC helps the individual at the expense of those outside, for whom it is now hotter (can raise ambient air temp by 2-4C). It worsens global warming in how it is powered (on hot days might have to fire up peaker plants using gas) and leaks of refrigerants.
Yes but as long as there's no international agreement where we either all stop using AC to "save the planet", then individuals will optimize for their survival and comfort, which means using AC.
You can't force people to downgrade their lifestyle when they see that only applies to them and not to other people on the planet, making their suffering in vain.