Japan’s Aging Schools Exposed: Children Suffer as Poor Insulation Defeats Air Conditioning

Heat Waves Take a Toll on Japanese Schoolchildren

In Tokyo, poorly insulated school buildings are rendering air conditioning ineffective, causing students to suffer in sweltering classrooms. This situation is leading to drowsiness and irritability among students and teachers alike, with higher electricity bills and increased carbon emissions adding to the problem.

Japan’s recent record-breaking heat has exacerbated the issue. July was the hottest month in 126 years, with temperatures soaring to 40 degrees Celsius (104 Fahrenheit). This extreme heat has resulted in a significant number of heatstroke cases among schoolchildren.

Teachers, such as Yuriko Takahashi from Tokyo, are constantly urging students to stay hydrated throughout the day. Despite these efforts, children are often banned from outdoor play to prevent heat-related illnesses.

In some cases, after physical education classes, students return to classrooms that are barely cooler. The lack of adequate insulation means that air conditioners struggle to maintain a comfortable temperature.

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Efforts to Improve Classroom Conditions

Some schools are taking steps to address the issue. In Tokyo’s Katsushika ward, a few classrooms have been renovated to include better insulation and heat exchanger devices. These improvements have led to a significant reduction in cooling time and energy consumption.

For example, the air conditioning systems in these upgraded rooms can now reduce the temperature from 32C to 27C in just 45 minutes, compared to the previous 100 minutes. This has resulted in a more comfortable learning environment for students.

More than 60 percent of students in these renovated classrooms reported that they could concentrate better after the changes. The improvements have also contributed to the ward’s goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Key features of the renovation include:

• Additional insulation in ceilings and walls
• Installation of heat exchanger devices
• Doubling the windows to enhance energy efficiency

Challenges and Future Plans

Despite these efforts, Japan still lags behind in global energy efficiency standards for buildings. Greenpeace climate and energy campaigner Kazue Suzuki highlights that from next year, a certain level of insulation will be required for new houses, but the standards remain low.

Many school buildings in Japan are 60 to 70 years old and lack sufficient insulation. As a result, air conditioning systems are unable to function effectively, leaving students and teachers in uncomfortable conditions.

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Suzuki emphasizes the need for more aggressive measures to improve energy efficiency in schools and other buildings across the country. This includes upgrading existing structures and implementing stricter standards for new constructions.

The situation is dire, but there is hope. With concerted efforts from government authorities, educators, and environmental campaigners, Japan can work towards creating safer and more comfortable learning environments for its children.

Impact on Daily School Life

The extreme heat has affected various aspects of daily school life. Activities that were once routine, like playing in the schoolyard, have become rare due to safety concerns. Children are now confined to indoor activities, further straining the already stressed air conditioning systems.

Teachers like Takahashi have noticed a change in students’ behavior and performance. Hotter temperatures have made it difficult for children to focus and participate in class, impacting their overall academic experience.

Efforts to mitigate the heat impact include frequent breaks for water and rest. However, these measures are not enough to counteract the effects of inadequate insulation and outdated cooling systems.

As Japan continues to experience rising temperatures, the urgency to address this issue grows. Investing in better insulation and energy-efficient solutions will be crucial in ensuring the well-being and academic success of future generations.

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