IMPACTS of COVID-19 on THE ENVIRONMENT

The COVID-19 pandemic had scarcely made an impact on the world as of the beginning of 2020, although it has quickly spread over the universe since it was first detected in early December 2019. By mid-March 2021, the COVID-19 had practically hit every country on the earth. As a primary precaution to prevent the spread of disease and mortality, some nations have implemented quarantines and the suspension of many activities. The termination of these activities has resulted in significant economic losses. However, it has been widely reported that these steps have improved air quality, particularly in highly polluted areas with considerable populations and industrial activity. Worldwide reports and verification of lower carbon, nitrogen, sulphur, and particulate matter emissions have been made in relation with shutdown times. On the other hand, it has been revealed that ozone levels in the ambient air have increased, owing mostly to lower nitrogen emissions. Furthermore, it has been claimed that natural water resources have higher water quality. Wastewater treatment plants have reported an increase in organic load with persistent chemicals as a result of increased use of sanitizers, disinfectants, and antibiotics. In general, the qualitative and quantitative volumes of solid waste, created as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak, have both increased. This study presents and summarises the environmental impacts of COVID-19 as recorded in the literature for various countries throughout the world, which provides a comprehensive perspective of the COVID-19's environmental consequences.