The Daily How Air-Conditioning Conquered America
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Aug 16, 2024 
Emily Badger, a cities and urban policy expert at The New York Times, delves into the complex relationship between air conditioning and climate change. She discusses how this technology, essential for modern living, poses a paradox as it helps us cope with rising temperatures yet exacerbates global warming. Badger shares her personal journey from a pre-air-conditioned childhood to the climate-driven shifts in American infrastructure. The conversation also highlights our growing dependence on air conditioning and its implications for sustainability and community engagement.
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Chicago Summers
- Emily Badger grew up in Chicago without AC, relying on cross-breezes and cold showers.
- This was normal; few people in her area had AC, highlighting a different relationship with heat.
AC Saturation in Orlando
- Badger's first job out of college took her to Orlando, Florida, where AC was ubiquitous.
- Life revolved around moving between air-conditioned spaces, a stark contrast to her upbringing.
AC's Impact on Urban Life
- Air conditioning shapes urban development, influencing where people live and how buildings are designed.
- It also detaches people from the outside environment, leading to a forgotten understanding of natural heat management.