Amidst the scorching hot summer in Hong Kong, I might still consider there are two distinct seasons this summer: the hot summer outdoors and the artificial winter inside offices. It sounds like a great relief to rush towards cool indoor surroundings after a sweaty journey in the streets.

However, it’s not too long ago when the government launched a campaign to set air conditioner temperatures to 25.5 degrees Centigrade. A survey by Green Sense found more establishments are setting air conditioning units to temperatures as low as 17 degrees. If you happen to be a shopper in a mall this could just be a temporary inconvenience, but for office workers locked in at work in a super-cooled office all day, this calls for winter-theme attire for everyone.

The problem with these malls and offices is that present “refrigerator” environments not only pose hazards to health, but also inflict long-term environmental damage.

A random check on 22 commercial locations in Hong Kong revealed that all of them registered temperatures below 25 degrees; one building in Kwun Tong registered 17 degrees. No wonder people who feel this is too much have filed complaints to authorities. In June 37 complaints were received, double the number from the same month last year.

But cold surroundings aren’t only found in commercial buildings like banks and malls. Subway trains are also subject to passenger complaints as they are too cold. Green Sense recorded temperatures inside trains between 20.8 and 21.8 degrees Centigrade. However, an MTR spokesman refuted claims that train temperatures are below prescribed settings, saying that train temperatures are programmed to stay at 26 degrees and built-in sensors adjust temperatures if necessary.

More than just human inconvenience of setting air conditioning units below recommended settings is the effect on environment. Even though effects on global warming may be years ahead, as some would claim, the direct effects are quite obvious. As more buildings crank up their air-con units to bring down indoor temperatures, those outside can only feel more miserable from the hot air exhaust and occasional water leaks – one of the things I hate most about Hong Kong.

Good thing it’s almost September.