by Duncan Lorimer, Jamie Shinn and Amy Hessl
We are currently overwhelmed by a crisis of historic proportions. In the midst of COVID-19, as we celebrate the 50th anniversary of Earth Day, we would like to highlight some bright spots and opportunities that our response to the pandemic has for our ongoing fight against climate change.
One of the most important positives is how well our state leadership and communities have responded to COVID-19 and how important science has been in that response. Scientific models have been instrumental in aiding medical professionals as they measure the successes of social distancing. West Virginia and other states listened to the science and took early action. This prevented many deaths and saved millions of dollars.
Science plays a critical role in how we respond to our changing climate. Current climate models highlight the urgent need to avoid emissions and develop resilience to increasingly severe weather events. Just as with COVID-19, paying attention to these predictions can save lives and protect vulnerable communities in West Virginia. Honest communication between scientists and policy-makers is crucial as we develop policies to protect our state during the ongoing climate crisis.
COVID-19 has taught us that we are not all equal in the face of a crisis. Older people, those with pre-existing conditions, those with little savings, those without access to clean water and communities of color are some of the groups that have been hardest hit by COVID-19. These inequalities also matter in the context of climate change, where these same communities have greater exposure and fewer resources to respond and recover from ongoing climatic stressors such as extreme heat and flooding.
Thanks to clear communication and action by state leadership, local communities responded to the threat COVID-19 posed to the most vulnerable citizens. Hundreds of volunteers packed and delivered lunches for thousands of children. Thousands of masks have been made and donated to hospitals and nursing homes. Hospital administrators, doctors and nurses gave up their salaries to support those on furlough. Imagine what actions might be taken with clear communication about the threat of climate change to our state, especially to the most vulnerable.
We have learned that some actions we have taken will have wide reaching and long lasting benefits well beyond the current crisis. Imagine how much better our resistance to the common cold and the flu will be moving forward now that we all know how to wash our hands! These actions cost us nothing but enhance our resilience as a society by saving money and time from lost work due to illness.
Similar actions, taken at an individual level and encouraged through effective leadership, could have long lasting impacts in the fight against climate change. Meeting online instead of commuting to work, eating less meat and decreasing throw-away consumption all contribute to mitigating climate change. However, just as hand soap and masks will not be enough to fight COVID-19, recycling and carpooling will not be enough to solve the global climate crisis. In addition to individual actions, we need decisive and scientifically-informed leadership and political will at all levels.
We have seen that urgent situations help us recognize and value our health, well-being, families and our state’s beauty. In Morgantown, according to counters at various locations on the trails, Rail-Trail use is up by 20-60% since COVID-19. In light of this, it is important to note that we have a levy vote in June for parks and trails that also supports other activities such as MUSC soccer, the county parks, the ice rink and the botanic garden.
Just as you have made changes in your life in response to COVID-19, take some time this Earth Day to consider what is important to you and how you might take action to ensure that what you value is protected for you, your children and grandchildren. We urge you to be inspired by others and log your actions at www.wvclimateaction.org. Communicate your concerns to our elected leaders, whether related to COVID-19, the climate crisis or any matter you regard as important. While we continue to take individual actions, we need strong leadership at all levels to truly mobilize us and allow for effective and equitable responses to the many challenges climate change poses.
Duncan Lorimer is the Associate Dean for Research at Eberly College of Arts and Sciences. Jamie Shinn is an assistant professor of geography at WVU. Amy Hessl is a professor of geography at WVU.
