The Environmental Impacts of COVID-19 Globally and In the Everglades

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has affected nearly everyone in some way, but nothing quite like the effects that it has had on the environment. Ironically, the natural world has been helped and harmed simultaneously over the past months as a result human’s response to coronavirus. With cities shut down all over the globe, air quality has improved, but with disposable masks and other personal protective equipment (PPE) being used daily by most, amounts of ocean plastic are on the rise. As we explore the impact that this devastating pandemic has had on the environment, we will also provide information on how the Everglades and south Florida’s environment has changed, and how you can be of service to the environment during these times.

Air Quality

“Scientists first noticed a decrease in greenhouse gas emissions in China" (Kienapple), where the first shutdown happened, and similar scenarios have appeared globally.

Due to the worldwide lockdown, there had been restrictions on travel. This includes airlines across the globe to rush hour on the highway. This has caused a decrease in emissions and has improved local air quality. Data collected by NOAA research facilities has found, there has been a decrease in emissions of fine particulate pollution(PM2.5) and lower levels of smog in the United States. PM2.5 is primarily created by emissions from vehicles. It can be harmful to your respiratory health and can worsen cardiovascular diseases. 

There has also been a decrease of nitrogen dioxide(N02) which also comes from vehicle emissions. “...readings from the Copernicus Sentinel-5P satellite show a significant decrease in NO2 concentrations over Rome, Madrid, and Paris, the first cities in Europe to implement strict quarantine measures.”(Zambrano). This includes other places such as Wuhan. 

However, due to the increase of PPE use there will be an increased use of incineration to dispose of materials. This would release air pollutants of dioxin and furan. Although these chemicals are found naturally in the environment in small amounts, they can be toxic and dangerous in concentrated amounts.  They are both carcinogens and range in health problems such as damage to the immune system. Dioxin can also seep into the water supply by air emissions. They are both slow to break down. 

The benefits from the lockdown appeared early on, however there will also be indirect harm done to the atmospheric quality as time progresses.

Ocean Pollution

One of the biggest factors for ocean pollution due to the COVID-19 pandemic is plastic pollution. Due to the surge of PPE, such as masks, it is predicted that 75% of used masks will end up in landfills or seas according to the UN Environmental Program. This is both dangerous to marine life and public health. Sea turtles could mistake plastic gloves for jelly fish and other sea animals, including birds, could get trapped in the netting. Microplastics could end up in our digestion due to fish consuming plastic in the ocean.

Before COVID, plastic polluting the seas was still a dire issue. However, due to the surge of sales of PPE it only exacerbated the situation. The UNCTAD predicts global sales will be around $166 billion worth of PPE this year compared to the $800 million sales in 2019. Waste management companies were not prepared for this surge, which could lead to mismanagement of waste materials. 

An added complication to this matter is masks and gloves that have been exposed to pathogens would need to be treated by treatment facilities. One of these methods is incineration which comes with its own downsides. It can result in trace emission of dioxin and furan. This will damage the air quality and jeopardize public health.

The Everglades

Tourism is what makes Florida’s economy flourish, but travel isn’t on the mind when many are worried about contracting the novel coronavirus and would rather stay home to stay safe. With this, Florida’s economic restoration from a pitiful travel season has been the focus of new legislature, thankfully, something that goes hand-in-hand with Everglades restoration. The unique ecology of Florida and its subtropical climate is a reason why tourism to the Sunshine State is so popular, so over the past six months, restoration efforts have been in full swing, in preparation for upcoming travel seasons and in the anticipation of future tourists.

As stated by Florida Senator Marco Rubio “healthy waterways will be key to our economic recovery and long-term economic prosperity.” Thus, construction of new storm water treatment areas has started recently to recover from the severe spring drought. Providing more flexibility, these areas will aid in the restoration of our waterways and estuaries, and also secure a more dependable water supply for agricultural and municipal use. 

How Can We Help

What You Can Do At Home

There are simple ways to keep your PPE from ending up in the ocean, and if it does, not harming the wildlife. Purchasing reusable masks that can be sanitized with every use are a good alternative to disposable surgical masks. Keep in mind the quality of the masks when using this method by being sure that your masks collect droplets effectively. If you are still using single-use surgical masks, be sure to cut the ear band or tie the long string into a big knot so it doesn’t get tangled on marine life. Like with any trash, pick up any PPE that is litter and dispose of it properly.

What you can do with your dollar

To stimulate your local economy and reduce your carbon footprint, you can order products and food from local small businesses and restaurants. With less business than usual due to restrictions, curfews, and the safety of staff and customers, mom and pop shops are closing their doors and need all the help the can get. Interestingly enough, buying from a local small business will actually lower your carbon footprint. And if you have any money left over, consider a donation to The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, The Everglades Foundation, The Friends of the Everglades, The South Plantation ER Ambassadors, or your favorite conservation non-profit.

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