As heat waves batter Europe, the need (or not) for air-conditioning has become part of the political tug of war in France between the right and the left.

The UK's recent heatwaves have sparked debate over air conditioning, with proponents arguing wider adoption could boost living standards, productivity, and even support the transition to net zero.

As record-breaking heat grips much of Europe, France is at the center of a political and cultural clash over whether air conditioning is a public health necessity or an environmental misstep.Aurelien Breeden and Josh Holder report for The New York Times.