Learning from Dual Global Crises: COVID-19 and climate change

This article compares two concurrent global crises: the decades-long climate change crisis and the months-long COVID-19 pandemic. These have many similarities. We draw attention to seven parallels and implications. Three of these feature change: business as usual is not acceptable; timeliness in relation to tipping points is critical; and communities can adapt to change with support. Two other points highlight the importance of data: decisions about policy, planning and management need to be based on evidence; and preparation needs to be based on expert advice, warnings, and long-term strategies. Two additional comments involve institutions and relationships: integrated multi-level governance is most effective to deal with global crises; and a sense of a shared burden on humanity globally is essential. We learn that adaptation can take place without having all the facts but accepting the trends, timing is critical, and political will is vital.