Could COVID-19 mark a turning point for global action on climate change?

Abstract

COVID-19 and climate change are both threats of immense proportions, however, the differing perception of climate change as far-off, projected and unpredictable, persists as a marked barrier to global action. COVID-19 is increasing awareness of the connection between human actions and environmental consequences. The current slowdown of fossil fuel use has given a glimpse of the quitter, cleaner and more caring world that effective climate change could also achieve. Decisions made in coming months can either “lock in” economic development patterns that will do permanent and escalating damage to the ecological systems, or, if wisely taken, can promote a healthier and greener world.