The SARS-CoV-19 virus that causes Covid-19 has taken deep root in the northern hemisphere during winter. The seeds of summer outbreaks in Australia and South Africa were planted by visitors from those northern climes. We don’t know whether the seasonal link is causal or not. None the less we agree the ensuing economic crisis and the green economy should be tackled simultaneously.
We Must Not Overlook the Economic Crisis and the Green Economy
There’s no global consensus regarding the tipping point where economic recovery becomes more important than infection control. Some nations are too impatient to wait any longer. Others say no. The economic crisis and the green economy must wait until we are safely beyond the curve.
Meanwhile, the climate crisis and global warming await our urgent attention. That’s because they also threaten a new normality our human bodies are not prepared for. The president of COP26 urges the world to work together and tackle the global pandemic and the green economy together.
UK climate economist Lord Stern takes this one stage further. He told BBC News governments should bail out companies determined to lower their emissions to international goals first.
But Will the 11th Petersburg Climate Dialogue Add Value?
The conference of ministers from 35 countries was first shelved, and then reconvened as a video meeting. On 27 and 28 April ministers will discuss ways to strengthen climate protection and global cooperation.
As we write, Covid-19 is robbing lives in the world’s most advanced nations that have the deepest carbon footprints. Again, there is no evidence the link is causal. None the less there’s a good argument for tackling SARS-CoV-19, the economic crisis and the green economy together. That’s because it’s difficult to separate one from the other.
Related
South Africa Flattened Its Covid Curve Quickly
Donate Covid-19 Plasma To Give Others Hope
Preview Image: Deaths per Million People
