A Breather for the Planet

A recent publication in the journal Nature Climate Change argues that global carbon dioxide emissions fell 17% between January and April this year, compared to the same period in 2019.

Despite these apparent good numbers, experts point out that it would only be a “breather” for the planet, since this is due more to the confinement measures of the Covid-19 than the changes in the modes of production.

In fact, the International Energy Agency (IEA) forecasts an increase in emissions of 130% by 2050, if the growth rate shown prior to the outbreak of the pandemic continues.

Five countries account for 61% of total carbon dioxide emissions: China, the United States, India, Russia and Japan.

Of all of them, China alone produces 30% of global emissions, doubling the United States (15%). In just 5 provinces of the Asian country, industrial activities concentrate more levels of this pollutant than any other country in the world.

Hence, the call is for countries to contribute to a real change in the decontaminating trend, through a significant transformation in their production systems, which will be achieved as each of us is capable also of making small major adjustments in their ways of consumption.

Demanding sustainable products, certified and manufactured in harmony with the environment and communities is no longer a fad, but a real and urgent need so that our planet can breathe again with ease.