Covid-19 lockdown-like steps may help combat air pollution: Scientists

The lockdown has also resulted in effects that people cannot see, like the gradual repair of the ozone hole, point out scientists

The lockdowns enforced due to the Covid-19 pandemic led to large improvement in air quality in India, say scientists who suggest that such interventions may be used as a possible emergency measure to combat severe air pollution episodes like those witnessed in Delhi-NCR region during the winter months.

Ahead of the World Environment Day on June 5, experts have outlined several environmental factors that saw improvements in India as a result of the lockdowns, namely air quality, noise pollution, water quality, and biodiversity among others due to reduced industrial and human activities.