The current COVID-19 pandemic is having devastating consequences around the world. With hundreds of thousands of lives lost and many more people suffering from serious aftereffects, the impact of the novel coronavirus is unprecedented in living memory.
While the human cost of COVID-19 is, of course, the most important factor, other issues have come to the fore too. The economic uncertainty created by the pandemic is likely to last for generations, for example. Another aspect of the outbreak worthy of consideration is the environmental impact it's having.
With many industries forced to cease operations amid lockdown restrictions, carbon emissions have reduced significantly in many regions. In fact, pollution levels have dropped so much in some areas that there are notable differences in water and air quality.
Although it will take months for the final analysis to take place, early statistics suggest that COVID-19 could cause the largest ever annual fall in CO2 emissions. While the temporary reduction in emissions has had a stunning impact on local environments, this will only be continued if people seize the opportunity to switch to greener options as lockdown restrictions are eased.
Becoming More Environmentally Friendly
As well as campaigning for stricter environmental regulations and boycotting companies that produce large amounts of CO2, individuals can take a stand by switching to greener options at home. Fortunately, there are numerous ways to embrace a more environmentally friendly style of living, including:
Installing low flow showerheads, sink taps and toilets
Choosing reusable products, rather than disposable ones
Avoiding products which come in plastic packaging
Using locally grown and sourced produce
One of the most effective ways to make your home more eco-friendly is to start using renewable energy. Solar panels are a great way to replace non-renewable fuel options and they can be used almost anywhere in the UK.
Even if you're not ready to go completely off-grid just yet, supplementing your energy supplies with renewable energy will minimise the amount of non-renewable power you rely on. In addition to this, you could save a considerable amount of money by minimising your power usage and switching to cheaper, greener suppliers.
With many energy providers now offering green options, there's always a way to enhance your eco-friendly credentials. When you compare gas and electric providers through an online switching service, for example, you'll be able to assess hundreds of suppliers in minutes to find one that complements your approach to sustainability.
A Step Towards a Greener Future?
The human suffering caused by COVID-19 means the global population is experiencing one of the bleakest times in modern history. With a significant amount of upheaval still to come, we're forced to find a 'new normal' and embrace a different way of life. It is possible, however, that more people will be eager to build upon the environmental changes we're seeing and commit to a more eco-friendly future. By incorporating sustainability into the global recovery efforts, we could leverage the unexpected environmental impact of the pandemic and create a greener future for us all.
