Qatar is a major consumer of energy to light and air-condition its cities, and is now facing the threat of global warming. The country, located in one of the hottest places on the planet, has seen its average annual temperature rise by more than 35.6°F (2°C) compared to pre-industrial times. To cope with the high temperatures – which can exceed 122°F (50°C) in summer – the country is air-conditioning not only its buildings but also its stadiums, markets, pavements, etc. Qatar is thus engaging in a vicious circle of greenhouse gas emissions. Its air-conditioning needs are constantly growing and the country’s total cooling capacity is expected to double by 2030. At the current rate of global warming, temperatures in Qatar could rise by as much as 39.2°F to 42.8°F (4°C to 6°C), in the coming decades, with dramatic consequences for the environment and the population.