The Climate Benefit During Lockdown

Climate benefit

The Coronavirus pandemic stopped the whole world for a good 6 to 9 months – as people were forced to stay home. Most shops and restaurants were closed, remote learning for students who are in schools, college or universities became the norm and travel was cut-off temporarily for many countries.

Although, the lockdown measures had a huge impact on the economy (job losses, business closures, recession, etc..) it had a much positive (and welcomed) impact on air quality, clearer water, clear air, and countless others…

Satellite observations have shown that the measures have triggered significant decreases in harmful greenhouse gas emissions.

Global Carbon Dioxide (CO2) emissions dropped by 7% – which, scientifically, was proven to be the biggest annual decrease since World War ll.

With the full lockdowns Global Electricity dropped down by 10% which was also the biggest drop since the Great Depression (1930s) – a full 90 years later…

With a mobility restriction for everyone – Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) and Particulate Matter (PM2.5) result and impact were temporary but made a difference in air quality and visibility…

NO2 and PM2.5 (Diesel) is a gas that come from vehicles and airplanes as it gives the transport fuel – with a restriction on travel, the surface ozone decreased in many cities. This was due to a huge factor of the people staying home but travelling when necessary and travelling being suspended.

Now that most countries have reopened and lockdown restrictions have been reduced, it’s more likely that everything will soon go back to ‘normal’. However, to see how far we have come as a society in an era of constant new developments in making our earth healthier, we should all take this into consideration and help keep this positive impact as part of our daily habit…

Prime Production provides translation, interpreting and desk-top publishing services for UN agencies, International organisations and NGOs for mor than 10 years. Prime is proud to support organisations in delivering the message of gender equality and global sustainable development.

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