By Dianne Celemen As we all know it, the COVID-19 pandemic has created a historical impact on the world -- and we are all being affected by it. However, the outbreak has had an interesting effect on the environment, from the improvement of air pollution to clear canals in Venice. This Newsweek article describes how the clear water in Italy “isn't necessarily a sign of improved water quality, but the unusual lack of boat traffic.” Read more about this phenomenon in this article: https://www.newsweek.com/coronavirus-major-impact-environment-co2-air-quality-animals-1493812 A noticeable drop in pollution and greenhouse gas emissions in some countries is indeed an unexpected effect from the pandemic. Although this worldwide crisis has brought dire effects to even our own local communities, a positive outcome can come out of this if we prepare to fight against climate change in order to keep harmful emissions down. Christopher Jones, lead developer of the CoolClimate Network and an applied research consortium at the University of California, Berkeley stated: "We can help prevent crises in the future if we are prepared. I think there are some big-picture lessons here that could be very useful." Check out more about this topic in this informational NBC News article: https://www.nbcnews.com/science/environment/coronavirus-shutdowns-have-unintended-climate-benefits-n1161921 As I looked at more videos and articles concerning the environmental impacts from Coronavirus, I stumbled upon an intriguing effect on wildlife animals. Species who live in the same ecosystems as humans will have to adapt to different lifestyles as the level of human activity on the streets significantly lowers. For a great visual about the animals found in unexpected places around the world, take a look at the intro of this DW News video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UVxWWW63SdU So, yes, coronavirus has turned our lives upside down in the span of weeks. But especially in a time of need for hope, we can turn to these positive impacts on the environment that lower levels of human activity outside has brought upon the world. Can the corona crisis help our planet to breathe again? Dianne CelemenEnvironmental Club Publicity Chair, Junior
1 Comment
Aida
4/20/2020 06:38:19 pm
amazing article :)
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