Charleston: Return of the Blue Sky on Earth Day
"Did you notice any stories about the return of the blue sky? Unfortunately, there were not many of them, and they were usually tucked away behind other news reports that seemed much more critical. But they were there: the return of clear skies above cities like Los Angeles, which had not been seen for generations. As the traffic level declined, the pollution declined, and the clear sky appeared like a sign from heaven. It is a visual aid to show us that positive change is possible on the other side of COVID-19. Not just for the environment but our whole society. The blue skies can return for us in many ways if we have the courage to change."—Bishop Steven Charleston's Facebook Page.
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This past weekend, we celebrated the 53rd anniversary of Earth Day. In a past year, Bishop Charleston reminded us that trying to stop this pandemic had given our planet a rest. As a result, pollution and greenhouse emissions had fallen across the world. For example, India's capital New Delhi is one of the world's most polluted cities. But its skies are now blue, and many people can see the Himalayas Mountains for the first time.
Researchers have found a 5 to 10% decrease in air pollutants, such as carbon dioxide, in New York. Carbon monoxide emissions have dropped by 50%. The change was created by grounding flights, reducing cars on the road, and shutting down businesses and factories. Some predicted we might reach the Paris Climate Accord goals even sooner. In Venice, canal water was so clear that fish were easily seen. This may be because there are no boats and people in its waters. But environmentalists warn all this could be temporary. Will we eventually return to the lifestyle we had before?
Today, all of this has been at a great expense—the death of over one million people in our own country and over 6.91 million worldwide. We can only guess what it will be tomorrow if we have another flare-up of infections.
Bishop Charleston tells us to give thanks for the blue sky, honor its presence, imagine ways to keep the skies blue, and never forget the cost in lives of so many who died. There must be another way to save our planet that is not so costly.
Joanna. Joannaseibert.com. https://www.joannaseibert.com/