Federal scientists will study the effects of the coronavirus lockdowns on the environment, including lower levels of air pollution, water contamination, and greenhouse gas emissions.
The research effort, announced Wednesday by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, could offer a glimpse into how day-to-day activities, such as vehicle and air travel, shipping, and manufacturing, affect the environment.
“This research is providing new insight into the drivers of change for our oceans, atmosphere, air quality, and weather,” said Craig McLean, assistant NOAA administrator for oceanic and atmospheric research, in a statement. “Our past work has prepared us to investigate these unprecedented times.”
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During shelter-in-place orders prompted by the pandemic, people around the world have noticed lower levels of pollution. For example, towns in northern India reported being able to see the Himalayas for the first time in decades. Cities and regions in the United States, including smoggy Los Angeles, have also seen their best consistent air quality levels in recent years.
NOAA researchers have already found slight declines in fine particle pollution in parts of the eastern and western U.S., as well as decreases in ground-level ozone, according to a news release Wednesday.
In addition to air pollution, the researchers will also monitor changes in greenhouse gas emissions, the effects of reduced underwater noise levels on marine life, and the impacts of reduced air travel on clouds.
