We'll recover from coronavirus - but unless we learn from it - we won't recover from climate change

[CousinIT]

As soon as the number of daily recoveries exceeds the number of daily infections, the impacts of the virus will begin to recede. In contrast, every ton of carbon dioxide we emit resides in our climate indefinitely

https://www.independent.co.uk/voices/coronavirus-climate-change-co2-emissions-economy-a9448006.html

Leading scientists repeatedly warned us it was coming. They told us it would kill millions, cost trillions, and transform the way we live, but that modest preparation could forestall the worst impact.

Three months ago, we would have been describing the climate crisis. Instead, those same words now apply to Covid-19.

The two crises are borne of the same human failing: our inability to act now to forestall future consequences. Both require a swift, comprehensive response, but their severity and duration vary widely.

This pandemic is personal. We empathise with the most vulnerable and with those suffering in viral hotspots, and also fear for ourselves and our loved ones. Consider how quickly governments have acted, asking citizens to radically shift their ways of life and fast-tracking billions in bailout funds and relief packages, and justifiably so. This kind of emergency mobilises us.

The climate emergency is more insidious. Where the impacts of Covid-19 are rapid and easily identifiable, climate damage is gradual and multifaceted. Many scientists have criticised governments’ Covid-19 responses as slow or inadequate. But the response to climate change has been even more negligent by comparison, the damage more permanent.

[librechik]

1. yes indeed, Cousin

that has been on my mind through this whole bungled mess. I fear for my grandchildren. So sad. But it was only to be expected given these intransigent Republicans/Conservatives. Yes, I blame them, of course, they have done this somehow, despite being a minority. Always the Slave-owners. They are anti-democratic and immoral in the extreme.

[MineralMan]

2. If we all continued to behave as we are doing today,

we would be contributing to reducing our impact on the environment.

Something to think about.

[CousinIT]

3. I keep hoping the virtualization of society

will stick. IOW that all the traveling and meeting in person will be reduced now that we know we can save energy & reduce CO2 by going virtual instead. But we knew that before - yet never had to put it in practice - just hoping it changes or shifts a few things. And of course we need a Dem President.

[MineralMan]

4. My wife and I have worked from home for almost 30 years,

and I have for even longer. We like it that way, and we're contributing to reducing our carbon footprints.