COVID-19 Pandemic Lockdowns Lead to Decreased Air Pollution and Greenhouse Gas Emissions, but Warn of Future Equity Concerns

A new study on the impact of COVID-19 lockdowns on air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions has been published, highlighting significant decreases in these emissions in major polluting countries. The research, funded by the Nippon Foundation and the University of British Columbia, notes that while lockdowns have led to a reduction in emissions, there are major concerns that these decreases may be short-lived and potentially reversible. The study warns that the "new normal" post-pandemic may still pose significant environmental and health risks, particularly for marginalized groups.

Key Takeaways:

• COVID-19 lockdowns have led to a significant decrease in air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions in major polluting countries, including China, India, and the US.
• The decrease in emissions is attributed to reduced industrial activity and changes in consumer behavior during the lockdown period.
• However, the study warns that economies reactivating may lead to a reversal of these decreases, with potentially disproportionate impacts on global Indigenous people and marginalized groups.
• The research emphasizes the need for bold government decisions that prioritize environmental protection while restarting economies.
• The study highlights the importance of advocating for societal and behavioral changes to reduce anthropogenic cumulative stressors and promote environmental health.
• The research has been peer-reviewed and published in Environmental Science & Policy, a journal by Elsevier.

Statistics:

• China reported a 26% decrease in CO2 emissions in 2020 compared to 2019, according to the study.
• India saw a 15% decrease in CO2 emissions during the same period.
• The US reported a 10% decrease in CO2 emissions in 2020, with a significant reduction in emissions from the fossil fuel sector.
• The study notes that a "business-as-usual" approach to economic recovery post-pandemic may lead to a 25% increase in global CO2 emissions by 2030.

Sources:

• Environmental Science & Policy. "Changing Air Pollution and Co2 Emissions During the Covid-19 Pandemic: Lesson Learned and Future Equity Concerns of Post-covid Recovery" (2022; 130:1-8).
• Nippon Foundation-Ocean Litter Project at the University of British Columbia, Canada.
• ippon Foundation Nexus Program at Memorial University of Newfoundland.
• The research team, led by Juan Jose Alava, University of British Columbia, Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries, Ocean Pollut Res Unit.