COVID-19 Environmental Impact

Over the next few weeks, Los Angeles and many other cities across the world are going into lockdown due to the COVID-19. One way or another, we have all been afflicted by Coronavirus. Whether it has affected a family member, prevented you from seeing friends, or hurt you or others financially, the pandemic is reaching everyone. However, the pandemic may also present us with an opportunity for improvement.

Coronavirus has already had a large impact on the environment. As stated in Martha Henriques's article for BBC, air pollution by CO2 has been reduced by nearly 50% relative to last years numbers. Similarly, China has seen a 40% reduction of coal use in its power plants and a 25% reduction of monthly carbon emissions. Although these numbers inspire confidence, they are most likely not sustainable. These numbers are largely due to transportation restrictions, a sector of greenhouse gases who's emission will resume after the pandemic is slowed.

Despite the fact that the resurgence of the economy will be prioritized above environmental protection, long lasting change is at the center of many international conversations. The European Union recognized that the core of an "intelligent recovery" must be the "Green Deal."

On a more local note, the New York Post reminds us that animals currently have more "room to roam." For example, in the Welsh town of Llandudno, the decline of human activity in the street emboldened a small herd of mountain goat to enjoy some time in the street. Experts have also suggested that the cause of the Coronavirus stems from bats, who's contact with humans was a result of the exotic animal trade in China. The subsequent decrease in the buying/selling of exotic animals in China along with further legal restriction also marks a great step forward.

It is important to acknowledge that COVID-19 is claiming people's lives, and therefore must not be perceived as having a positive effect worldwide. Additionally, the primary goal must be to save the lives of the ill, and continue to take all precautions in order to fight the spread of the virus. However, when considering our future, aiming for a cleaner and greener world should not be overlooked.