Andorra to Assess School Thermal Conditions for Heatwave Vulnerabilities

The Andorran government will develop a technical map identifying school buildings most vulnerable to high temperatures from intensifying heat episodes, while ruling out widespread air conditioning installations across all facilities.

Education Minister Ladislau Baró, who also oversees Institutional Relations and Universities, outlined the plans in a written parliamentary response to Concòrdia councillor Maria Àngels Aché's question on school climatisation. The executive recognises the absence of a comprehensive vulnerability assessment despite past reliance on school reports and technical inspections. No specific study yet examines how elevated classroom temperatures affect student health, wellbeing, or performance.

A notable incident last academic year occurred at the Escola Andorrana d'Escaldes-Engordany, where health and safety checks recorded around 32°C in mid-morning river-facing classrooms and offices, exacerbated by a greenhouse effect from the enclosures.

Air conditioning remains off the table government-wide due to high energy use and building-specific constraints. Instead, for the 2026-2027 school year, the Education Ministry will initiate parish-by-parish indoor temperature monitoring, log reported issues, and collaborate with Civil Protection on a dedicated heatwave protocol. This will address ventilation, hydration, adjustments to physical activities, use of cooler spaces like dining halls, support for vulnerable students, school transport, and parent communications.

In parallel, the government will consult Andorra's three education systems, families, staff, students, parent associations, and socio-educational groups on potential changes to the school calendar, timetables, and daily routines. Discussions will weigh impacts on transport, meals, and work-life balance, informed by monitoring data.

From 2027 onward, the vulnerability map will guide prioritised investments based on technical needs, urgency, feasibility, and budgets. Planned upgrades encompass solar shades and awnings, enhanced ventilation and insulation, enclosure improvements, shaded play areas, and targeted cooling systems—only where technically justified and preferably linked to renewable energy sources.

Baró emphasised the expected rise in heat event frequency and intensity, with adaptations aligned to energy efficiency and fiscal limits.