As the world fights COVID-19 pandemic, lockdown policies and reduced economic activities have brought a sudden drop in air pollution in most of the countries.
China was the first country to implement lockdown after the outbreak of COVID-19 in the city of Wuhan in December last year. Many other countries followed suit as the infection spread across the globe.
Implementing physical distancing to prevent the spread of COVID-19 pandemic, lesser cars hit the road, fewer planes flocked the skies, and a lot of factories shut down. COVID-19 pandemic has affected the lives of human and economy at large. However, it has also given nature a time to heal itself from the growing air pollution and other impacts on the environment.
As per international media, pollution levels in New York have reduced by nearly 50 per cent compared to this time last year.
In China, the proportion of days with good quality air increased. Also, satellite images have shown a dramatic decline in pollution levels across China.
Satellite images also showed a similar impact in other countries, where the infection has spread.
In England, smog declined in London and views became clearer according to the BBC.
With over a million people infected with COVID-19 and thousands of deaths from the infection around the world, countries like China, Italy, France, UK, and India among others have implemented lockdown. However, Wuhan city has been partially reopened as it reported lesser cases.
Meanwhile, in Bhutan, National Environment Commission said it will be difficult to conclude if the pandemic has impacted the environment in Bhutan.
However, it is unclear if the pandemic could lead to a long-lasting drop in pollution or is only a fleeting moment.
Kinley Dem
