Efforts to control the Coronavirus pandemic have reduced economic activity and contributed to localized improvements in air quality. But it is too early to assess the implications for concentrations of greenhouse gases which are responsible for long-term climate change. Carbon dioxide levels at key observing stations have so far this year been higher than last year.
WMO Secretary-General Petteri Taalas has repeatedly stressed that the economic and industrial downturn as a result of the Coronavirus pandemic is not a substitute for concerted and coordinated climate action.
“It would be irresponsible to downplay the enormous global health challenges and loss of life as a result of the COVID19 pandemic,” said WMO Secretary-General Petteri Taalas. “However, now is the time to consider how to use economic stimulus packages to support a long-term switch to more environmentally and climate-friendly business and personal practices.”
“Past experience suggests that emission declines during economic crises are followed by a rapid upsurge. We need to change that trajectory,” he said.
”The world needs to demonstrate the same unity and commitment to climate action and cutting greenhouse gas emissions as to containing the Coronavirus pandemic,” he said. “Failure in climate change mitigation could lead to greater human life and economic losses during the coming decades,” he said.
