Covid-19 has negative and positive effects on the environment. The decrease in travel also decreased emissions by cars, trains, and planes, but also decreased foot traffic in some areas, allowing human affected ecosystems to begin to recover. In some areas, the decrease in pollution by car emissions was so great that smog covered views became visible again. However, an increase would be plastic/ non-recyclable use. Between masks and other PPE (Personal Protective Equipment), takeout, plastic bags, and numerous other plastic items, the amount of waste going to landfills has drastically increased. There is a lot of research showing the good and bad changes, but most of all, the pandemic is showing what needs to change, and that it is possible to improve the state of our earth.

In 2019-2020, Australia faced catastrophic fires during their bushfire season (June 2019-March 2020). These fires scorched over 46 million acres, destroyed over 5,900 buildings (with almost 3,000 being homes), and killed around 34 people. Severe drought lead to the hottest and driest year, creating the dangerous situation. Severe health issues increased as smoke, ash, and particulates were released into the sky. The drought and extreme heat was likely caused by climate change, as some areas deal with increased temperatures, more than they already have. So, for Australia, extreme heat and drought was just added to by climate change, causing more damage and harm to result from their fire season.

Six Months After Australia’s Wildfires, Recovery Continues (directrelief.org)

Drastic change in temperature affects the sea turtles in seas by Texas. Sea turtles are not accustomed to cold temperatures, and with the surprising cold weather in Texas, many turtles are becoming stunned. This is when the turtles experience hypothermia and can no longer move or keep their heads above water. Removing them from the water to warmer areas is important to their survival. Climate Change, while a warming of the atmosphere can affect many other parts of our weather system, making some areas much hotter and others cooler. Other areas altogether experience weather events that may be drastically different to what they are used to.

Thousands of cold-stunned turtles rescued from freezing temperatures in Texas nearing release - ABC News (go.com)