France's historic heatwave forces a dramatic shift on air conditioning policies

France is facing unprecedented heat, with record temperatures pushing much of the country under the highest heat alert. Politicians from all parties now agree that air conditioning is essential in key public spaces. The shift comes after years of debate, including past resistance from Green Party members. On Tuesday, 23 June, France recorded its hottest day since 1947. Temperatures in some areas approached or exceeded 40°C, forcing schools to close. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu responded by announcing stronger mobilisation of the healthcare system to cope with the extreme conditions.

During the 2025 heatwave, Green politicians opposed widespread cooling system installations, calling it a right-wing approach. Marine Tondelier, the party’s national secretary, had been among the critics. Now, she acknowledges the necessity of air conditioning in schools and hospitals, though she insists it should not be a universal solution.

The change in stance has drawn attention to past arguments. While Tondelier and others once resisted such measures, the current crisis has led many in the Green Party to accept cooling systems as indispensable in critical public services. Over half of France remains under the highest heat alert. The government and opposition now support targeted air conditioning in vulnerable settings. The reversal highlights the growing recognition of climate adaptation needs in public policy.