A Catalyst For Change

The basis for change occurs when one moves out of their comfort zone. However, for that to happen there needs to be a spark or a push.

- Asaph Low

It was half a year ago when our daily livelihoods felt “normal”, not least till the coronavirus left its indelible mark on the human race. Closures on unprecedented levels were enforced across the world as countries went into lockdown. Disruptions and chaos ensued and amidst the COVID-19 discomforts, conversations about complex issues deeply entrenched within humanity took place.

The pandemic we are facing may well be the catalyst needed to effect change.

“Food sustainability. Because it impacts gemerations to come.” - Lennard Yeong

FAULT LINES

As the world continues to globalise and shrink, the impact of environmental and social issues increases.

When humans were forced to stay at home the last few months during enforced lockdowns, scientists reported a decrease in pollutants from smog-choked metropolitan cities.

One party suffered while the other flourished — nature seized the opportunity to recover in whatever ways it could. For the first time in almost three decades, the Himalayan Alps were visible from the Indian state of Punjab. Pictures of thriving wildlife brought optimism while research studies have reported that the reduced economic activity has helped to decrease global warming as well as air and marine pollution.

Temporary as it may be, they were nevertheless a glimpse into how the environment can further benefit if stricter climate policies can be implemented and regulated.

However, the bleak truth remains — nature will continue to bear the brunt of human prosperity and advancement.

Closer to home, the boom in COVID-19 transmissions among migrant worker communities led to investigations and scrutinies. Questions were raised about the poor living conditions after pictures of dormitories circulated among the public.