Air conditioners, once considered a comfort essential, are now emerging as one of India’s biggest environmental threats. A recent survey reveals that in 2024, air conditioners pumped out an alarming 156 million tonnes of CO₂ emissions—equivalent to the pollution generated by every car on Indian roads combined.
Adding to the crisis, refrigerant leaks from cooling systems contributed 52 million tonnes of emissions, further worsening the problem. Experts warn that if unchecked, emissions from cooling appliances could double by 2035, posing a serious challenge to India’s climate goals.
While cars have long been seen as the face of urban pollution, the rising demand for ACs across homes, offices, and commercial spaces has quietly surpassed them. With India experiencing record-breaking heat waves, AC usage has skyrocketed, making the country heavily reliant on energy-intensive cooling.
Climate specialists stress the urgent need for energy-efficient appliances, improved refrigerant management, and a shift towards sustainable cooling technologies.
Meanwhile, social media reactions summed up the irony: “AC cools us, but heats Earth!”
