How The Environment Has Healed During The Pandemic

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, human activity in frenzy has dropped in the first quarter 2020 like never before.

The new Coronavirus, which manifested in China for its first time, and the subsequent measures of social isolation to stop it from spreading, put an end to transport. This reduced car trips, flights, pollution and daily consumption.

More than a third (on the recommendation of the medical authorities or in a state of emergency) of the world’s population is currently confined to their homes. Among the bad news like the paralysis of economy, an increase in infections and deaths from this disease, the only good consequence of this pandemic is that it allows for a little breathing space.

Videos of dolphins swimming off the coasts of Sardinia, Italy, wild boars walking through Barcelona’s streets and brown bears walking through Asturias towns are all signs that an interruption in human activity can be beneficial for nature.

There have been other encounters on social media where coyotes, foxes and goats were seen. These animals are often found in urban areas walking in full cities. This shows that social isolation measures can not only be effective in reducing infections but also indirectly help to return some of the goodness that nature provides us every day.

In particular, in Italy, the rates of decline in nitrogen dioxide concentration, a polluting greenhouse, have fallen to levels that were not seen for a decade. One of the worst affected countries by the virus.

The main source of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, China, saw its levels drop by as much as 25% compared to the same time last year. This global trend has helped improve air quality in major cities around the world. Photographs of beautiful skies and birds have provided a reason for people to smile during these difficult times.

Despite the optimistic claims of cleaner air, rivers seem to be able to regain their colors and animals that are impossible to see in normal conditions. This is not the best way to reduce or even become aware of environmental degradation.

Experts point out that despite the temporary reduction in pollution and decrease in greenhouse gas emissions, it is not possible to make a lasting change.

As the contagion curve drops, industries, transportation, and our consumption patterns will return back to normal, leading to a new increase in environmental pollution.

The current global health crisis is an opportunity to reconsider our consumption habits, increase awareness about our carbon footprint, and consider the intimate relationship we have with the environment and nature. Climate change and pollution are causing havoc.