The summer of 2026 saw Europe endure a series of severe heatwaves, stretching from mid-June to the end of August. These extreme temperatures led to tens of thousands of additional deaths across the continent. According to the European Copernicus climate service, August 2026 was recorded as the hottest August in history, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing trend of rising global temperatures. In an article published in New Scientist on September 5, 2026, Australian science journalist Alice Klein explored how the human body can naturally adapt to extreme heat. She explained that relying too heavily on air conditioning might prevent the body from developing its own thermoregulation mechanisms. Klein suggested that moderate and regular exposure to heat can help the body adapt by improving sweating and heart rate regulation. She recommended keeping indoor spaces only moderately cool, using blinds and curtains to control solar radiation during the day and allowing cool air to circulate at night. Klein also highlighted the role of lifestyle choices in improving resilience to heat. She advised drinking about two liters of water daily, even before feeling thirsty, and avoiding alcohol, which can dehydrate the body. For food, she recommended light meals rich in fruits and vegetables, which are high in water content and reduce the body’s metabolic heat. She also suggested using warm water for showers, as sudden cold exposure can cause blood vessels to constrict, trapping heat inside the body. Physical exertion, she noted, should be done during cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or evening, to reduce strain on the body. Klein discussed the concept of seasonal acclimatization, where the body gradually adapts to higher temperatures over time. She shared her personal experience, having grown up in Australia, where temperatures often reach 40°C, and noted that she had not been as affected by the European heatwaves as others. This highlights that individual responses to extreme heat can vary, though these differences are more about perception and adaptation rather than genetic factors. While acclimatization can reduce the impact of late summer heatwaves, the widespread use of air conditioning raises environmental concerns. Air conditioning accounts for about 10% of global electricity demand and contributes approximately 1.13 billion tons of CO2 emissions annually. As temperatures continue to rise, the increased reliance on air conditioning creates a dangerous cycle—higher energy use leads to more emissions, which in turn contribute to further warming, making heatwaves more frequent and severe.