Did COVID-19 Actually Influence The Planet?

People all over the world are dealing with some unforeseen challenges which the COVID-19 pandemic has caused. The second wave of the coronavirus has hit several countries, including India, Kyrgyzstan, South Korea, and Israel. 

Over the past year, millions of people have died worldwide, forcing countries to go under severe lockdown. Work from home has become the new normal for people. Several have been facing mental and health issues due to these stringent lockdown rules.

But that was about people, what about the environment? Are they benefitting due to these shutdowns? Many say that the worldwide lockdown, there has been a positive effect on the environment. 

The Gain

One of the main benefits of the lockdown worldwide was less human travel. Due to this, air pollution levels have dropped drastically. As per reports, levels of pollutants like carbon monoxide [CO], sulfur dioxide [SO2], and PM2.5 [Particle Pollution] have plunged.

As per NASA scientists, they have seen an apparent drop in pollutant levels in Wuhan at first, after the city went under complete lockdown.

When it comes to wildlife, killing animals have seen a significant drop by March 2021. Several data revealed that roadkill rates have fallen by more than 40 percent in 11 countries, including Spain, Czech Republic, and Israel.

Also, the reduction in marine activities has reduced the marine disruption which is caused due to excessive fishing and noise pollution due to fishing sonar activities.

The Loss

Even though pandemic had many positive effects on the environment and wildlife, some drawbacks are - economic hardships on developing countries that rely on tourism, deforestation at several natural hotspots, illegal hunting of endangered species. 

Several reports suggest that as people are running out of income, they move towards illegal living activities like unlicensed logging and illicit wildlife hawkers.

Besides, the use of single-use face masks and shields has increased pollution levels worldwide. It is estimated that more than 3 billion medical wastes are being disposed of worldwide since the pandemic.

Change Is Essential

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way humans look at nature. The relationship grew, and more positive changes are hoping to take place for a better future.

Also, humans understand how they are affecting nature. When thinking about the post-pandemic world, it seems to have more controlled environmental norms and lesser pollution levels—hoping for a better future for humans and Mother Nature.