According to data published in Nature, for the first time in almost decades, a positive change in the environmental conditions has been observed. 

The conditions of lock-down caused by COVID-19, and the prevailing work-from-home situation appears to be driving the drop in CO2 emissions. Transport-led emissions lead the way with a recent report suggesting that transport emissions have reduced by 40% worldwide.

The power and industry sectors have seen the second largest reduction in carbon emissions, behind transportation, with a decline reported as 22% and 17%, respectively.

The reduction may seem to be a good sign. Unfortunately, this effect will undoubtedly be temporary. As people return to work after completion of lock-downs, there will likely be a corresponding increase in the related CO2 emissions.

If the policymakers in corporations continue to find ways for their employees to be effective while working remotely, this could become a permanent change. The key is to see this period of lockdown as a preparatory phase to ensure that this new-found lifestyle becomes the ‘new normal’ and sustains for the years to come.

It will help the employees save on transportation costs and the companies on the travel allowances, but it will also help keep the CO2 levels reduced. This policy change may be just what is required for making Earth a sustainable place to be.

Scientists collected real-time data by compiling the daily flight statistics and monthly production data of about 42 countries. It also includes the hourly production records of electricity of some 31 countries, and others.

All these datasets have painted a picture that tells how important it is to curtail the actions that, though contributing to economic development, are going unjustifiably against the well-being or good health of the planet. 

As the pandemic lock-down has started to lift, there has been a corresponding rebound in the levels of CO2 emissions. Perhaps this pandemic, and the shutdown, have shown us a way to reduce CO2 emissions permanently – while still being productive.

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