In the Midst of a Pandemic – Change

Jane Goodall tells us that four changes would help the world’s climate. We must eliminate poverty. Unsustainable lifestyles must change. Abolish corruption. Reverse our growing human population.

And now here we are in the midst of this devastating pandemic which is actually changing our behavior. Here are a few observations:

• The sighting of the snow leopard and a new baby bison has been magical. 10,000 flamingos landed in Mumbai, India for the first time.
• Reserve gas and oil storage are full beyond capacity because airplanes are practically grounded, and cars are driving less.
• Countries with rampant air pollution look cleaner and healthier. China’s emissions fell by 25% and their fossil fuel usage by 40%. The Himalayas are visible from parts of India for the first time in decades.
• Pollution and greenhouse gas emissions have fallen. Nitrogen emissions have fallen far down for Italy, Spain and the UK. 
• Doctors are practicing telemedicine. It is efficient and positive. 
• Our consumption of pigs and chickens is likely to decline, because of the supply chain being interrupted.
• Barbaric bullfighting in Spain has been cancelled.

We are staying home and we are consuming less. Will we be able to sustain this lifestyle when we go back to work and our regular habits?

Now the positives do not eradicate the pain and loss of the many who have suffered or lost loved ones from COVID-19. However, we must not return to the old “normal.” We should press on to find better answers to these challenges.