Youth speak about COVID-19 effects on Climate Change and the environment

A. Covid-19 effects on Climate change and the environment

South Africa’s carbon emissions dropped by a quarter of a million tonnes each day after 27 March 2020, when the national lockdown came into effect. Across a whole year, this would mean emissions would drop by nearly 100-million tonnes, or about 20%, if the level 5 lockdown were to continue. This lockdown meant that fewer emissions were emitted from industries and transportation in South Africa. Globally, the emissions dropped by 17% daily from the 7 April 2020 when most of the world was under some sort of Lockdown. The level of pollution was the same as levels back in 2006 which were considered as good. Major cities like Durban, Johannesburg, Venice, Paris and London were almost like new cities. There was less pollution in the air, the canal in Venice was clear and wildlife were seen more in the canal, wild animals roam empty streets and nature is reclaiming urban areas. Experts do not think this will last as these effects are shrinking more. South Durban experienced clear blue skies, no smell and no health problems like coughing and nausea because all industries were shutdown.  

B. How to rebuild the Green Economy?

The coronavirus pandemic is a wakeup call to stop exceeding the planet’s limits on air quality emissions. After all, deforestation, biodiversity loss, and climate change all make pandemics more likely. Deforestation drives wild animals closer to human populations, increasing the likelihood of zoonotic viruses like SARS-CoV-2 will make the cross-species leap. Likewise, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change warns that global warming will likely accelerate the emergence of new viruses.

Governments that succeed in containing epidemics all tacitly follow the same mantra: “Follow the science and prepare for the future.” But we can do much better. Rather than simply reacting to disasters, we can use the science to design small local and sustainable economies that will mitigate the threats of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pandemics. We must start investing in what matters, by laying the foundation for a green, circular economy that is anchored in nature-based solutions and geared toward the public good. By so doing we create jobs and do not harm the environment with harmful chemicals.

C. What Mechanism should be put in place to address the above challenges?

As a member of the youth, I would want to put my points across to all tiers of government on ways to educate both urban and rural communities to play an individual role in living healthy lifestyles, preventing infection and caring for the planet by not using plastic and fossil fuels.  During this period government must provide supplies like sanitizer and masks and do regular testing and screenings for the population to be safe. Members of the community can play a role by been proactive and involved by joining environmental groups in their campaigns in putting the environment first. They can ensure that all species, biodiversity, and people that live on this planet are protected and secured for our future. In doing so, our hopes and dreams of a better futures is realised.

D. I seek a Future  

That is Proudly South African which supports locals by purchasing from small home-grown economic zones.

which works to stop CO2 emissions at source by saying no to buying any goods imported or manufactured by polluting companies.

and participates in groups stopping climate change by halting all fossil fuel development on land and sea.

And lastly by ensuring a just energy transition to renewables.   

By: SDCEA Intern Tristan Meek