That's an interesting question, because where I work this issue had never come up; in fact, passenger comfort is not ever curtailed in the interest of saving fuel. For that matter, we also run the APU [400-800kgs/hr] and 2 packs at the gate long before passengers board, to ensure proper conditioned cabin air. And besides pax comfort, I'm among those crewmembers who like lots of fresh, conditioned air. In flight and on the ground.
100% agree.
I will never
ever trade passenger comfort in the 'interests' of fuel saving.
The company backs me up...every time.
IF you don't treat your passengers properly, they will not return.
No passengers, no job.
No company profits, either.
Unless, you fly a freighter.