Environmental Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic: The Experience of Bogotá, 2020

Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2022 May 23;19(10):6350. doi: 10.3390/ijerph19106350.

Abstract

During the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, several environmental factors have influenced activities and protection policy measures in cities. This has had a major effect on climate change and global environmental catastrophe. In many countries, the strategy of closing various activities such as tourism and industrial production stopped normal life, transportation, etc. This closure has a positive impact on the environment. However, the massive use of masks and personal protection could significantly increase pollution worldwide. The impact on the environment needs to be calculated to have information for public health actions. In this study, we present a first overview of the potential impacts of COVID-19 on some environmental matrices in Bogotá, Colombia.

Keywords: COVID-19; SARS-CoV-2; air quality; global environment; solid waste; transport.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • COVID-19* / epidemiology
  • Cities / epidemiology
  • Colombia / epidemiology
  • Environmental Pollution
  • Humans
  • Pandemics* / prevention & control

Grants and funding

The project was partially funded by MinCiencias Colombia, Project Number 2010484467564 (call number 844 of 2019).