Is it possible to turn the coronavirus crisis into an opportunity for the planet?
The novel coronavirus may have temporarily halted global activity on a mass level as countries take extraordinary measures to halt the pandemic, but has it accidentally helped improve the planet's condition? At least for a while, scientists and climate experts say.
Chinese CO2 emissions fell sharply too, according to Finland's Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air, which said the carbon dioxide emissions fell by a quarter, or an estimated 200 million tonnes in the four weeks to March 1. The virus has spread to more than 120 countries, killing nearly 4,300 with more than 118,000 confirmed cases.
But the fossil fuel use, he said, would have to decline by about 10 percent around the world and "would need to be sustained for a year to show up clearly in CO2 levels." Since CO2 levels resume quickly when normal economic activity begins, Keeling said, "If there is any benefit of the coronavirus event in terms of slowing the pace of climate change, it could be in the changing of people's travel and work habits in ways that lead to sustained reductions in fossil fuel use.
"Finally, we’re taking crisis action, even if it isn't in direct response to the threat Greta Thunberg has been addressing so eloquently."In the midst of coronavirus measures, there has been a steep decline in oil prices, sparked by Saudi Arabia's price war with Russia.
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