Positive News in the Midst of Uncertainty

In the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, it has been hard to look past all the negative news coming from around the world. However in a time that has been so dark for many, there have been some positive events that have happened. The Earth is healing itself due to a lack of pollution, people are appreciating family and friends more, and most importantly people are getting back in touch with nature.

We have seen drastic changes in pollution levels across the world due to Covid-19. China’s pollution is extremely bad. People have to wear masks to help protect their immune systems from the fog of toxic fumes in the air. However, according to NASA, “Levels of nitrogen dioxide, a pollutant primarily from burning fossil fuels, were down as much as 30%.”

Pollution drops dramatically over China during coronavirus outbreak, NASA images show: https://t.co/P2pTvxb5vN pic.twitter.com/R9IGWI67Zw

— WSB-TV (@wsbtv) March 4, 2020

People in Punjab, India, are able to see the Himalayan Mountain Range from 100 miles away for the first time in over 30 years due to the lack of pollution.

According to CNN, “Delhi saw up to a 44% reduction in PM10 air pollution levels on the first day of its restrictions.”

The Himalayas are visible from certain parts of India for the first time in "decades" due to the reduction in air pollution caused by the country's coronavirus lockdown https://t.co/v9enqznzcC

— CNN (@CNN) April 9, 2020

In Italy, the canals in Venice are clearing up and there is even marine life in the canals. According to Classic FM, “In Cagliari’s port, in Sardinia, dolphins have even been spotted swimming around.”

Since lockdown: Venices canals have become clear. Italys coasts have dolphins coming close, wild boar roaming free in the streets! In just a few weeks our amazing earth has already started to repair the damage we cause! We need to use this chance to start a fresh! #COVID19 #Earth pic.twitter.com/iYOOxlNKny

— Chris Charlton ⚜️ (@TheCharlo) March 17, 2020

Also, because we have been ordered to stay at home, people are realizing just how vital schools, restaurants, malls, and even communication is to mental health. People have become more appreciative for these things that we normally take for granted.

Joely Barkett ‘20 said, “Once quarantine is lifted, I am never saying no to hanging out with my friends. I miss them so much.”

People have begun to get back in touch with nature. Right now the only thing we can do is get physical exercise. People have been going on family walks, running on trails, biking, fishing, skateboarding, and meditation to escape quarantine for a little.

Most importantly, communities are gathering around to support each other during these difficult times. Food banks have been receiving numerous donations from citizens and big corporations to help continue to feed the less fortunate. Healthcare and essential workers have been putting themselves on the frontlines, risking their health everyday, so we can still have access to medical care and food. People have been doing daily clap-outs for healthcare workers to thank them.

Touching moment: New York City spent 2 minutes clapping for coronavirus first responders on Friday. Huge thanks to Health care workers and essential workers. The hope of a country comes from its people https://t.co/KYf4MDc46u

— Xihong Lin (@XihongLin) March 29, 2020

In a time of so much uncertainty, there are still things to be great full for. Hopefully once this is all over, we realize how sacred our earth is and change the way we operate, enjoy times spent out with family and friend in places like restaurants and malls, and thank all of our healthcare and essential workers daily.