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By Roksanna Keyvan

In March 2020, the world came to a halt. Lives were turned upside down in a matter of days as businesses shut down and schools closed their doors. Two weeks of what initially seemed like vacation turned into months of quarantine and isolation for individuals across the world. What sounds like the prologue to a dystopian novel was actually the onset of a global pandemic known as coronavirus or COVID-19. 

Prompt and decisive health measures were taken in response to the crisis. However, their consequences sustained a profound impact on both human health and the global economy. This has significantly impacted the environment — for better and for worse.

The Good

When the world came to a halt, industry followed suit. Factories closed their doors, employees stashed away their uniforms and global pollution rates began to drop. 

The decrease in industrial activity during the pandemic led to a reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from factories and power plants. In 2020, The Earth Observatory at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) reported that declines in GHG emissions had been observed and reported across the world. As the world ceased its daily processes, the lessened consumption of fossil fuels slowed the onset of global climate change.  

The absence of industrial pollution also led to cleaner water sources, specifically in developing countries that previously dumped domestic and industrial waste into untreated bodies of water. Water bodies that were characteristically turbid or discolored, such as the Bay of Bengal and the ports of Venice, were clearer due to decreased boat activity.

While water and air pollution have visible effects, noise pollution is an invisible threat that has harmful physiological and psychological effects on humans, other living organisms and natural ecosystems. Noise pollution is unnatural sound generated from different human activities, such as construction, and is considered by the World Health Organization to be the third-most hazardous pollution after air and water pollution. 

Satellite images taken by NASA during lockdown periods in the city of Wuhan, China, reveal how decreased air travel and road transportation significantly lessened anthropogenic noise pollution in China, Ireland, and major cities across the globe. 

Restrictions in transportation and travel have allowed nature to heal itself. With the absence of human activity, popular tourist sites experienced ecological restoration and assimilation with the natural environment. Research findings from Eulogio Soto of Universidad de Valparaíso reported that, with the lack of human waste and disturbance, urban-coastal ecosystems displayed an ability to recover in terms of biodiversity and system functionality, dropping from high levels of turbidity with many aquatic and local species returning.  Social distancing and the lack of human disturbance correlated to a decline in the frequency of forest fires in the Southeastern United States, especially on federal lands, which house popular tourist spots such as national parks and wildlife management areas.

The Bad

Although the onset of COVID-19 reduced anthropogenic waste, it fostered an increase in biomedical waste. Biomedical waste relates to chemicals from disinfectants and infectious remnants from non-biodegradable personal protective equipment (PPE), such as masks and gloves.  This waste now poses a major threat to public health and the environment.

Professor Ana María Rule of John Hopkins University stresses that overuse of PPE has resulted in a surge of plastic waste that will take hundreds of years to break down. Smaller and smaller microplastics from plastic waste will accumulate throughout the environment — in the soil, water and air. Invisible and omnipresent, these harmful microplastics will inevitably be consumed by all organisms – including humans.

PPE plastic and medical waste increase the risk of disease transmission to waste workers and thus require special disposal methods, like incineration. Although these disposal methods are designed to prevent contamination and reduce the volume of waste, they still harm the environment by emitting heavy metals, particulate matter and GHG. Disinfectants and surface cleaners also contain particles and chemicals with harmful byproducts. These byproducts, which take many years to degrade, are unable to be processed in water treatment plants and will resultantly accumulate in municipal wastewater across the globe.

The Ugly Truth 

The COVID-19 pandemic has had significant environmental impacts, both positive and negative — but we are not in the clear just yet.

With almost all lockdowns ending and economic activity resuming pre-pandemic normalcy, NASA reported that levels of air pollutants, such as nitrogen dioxide, have returned to pre-pandemic conditions.. As typical pollutant levels rebound worldwide, an imminent return to environmental problems awaits us. 

As a society, it is important to assess our next steps and consider what changes need to be made to improve ourselves and our planet. Not all PPE is necessary, and its overuse does more harm than good. COVID-19 spreads primarily via airborne means, not surfaces, as the virus can only exist on surfaces for about three days. Anna María Rule, an assistant professor in Environmental Health and Engineering at Johns Hopkins recommends that it is more effective and environmentally efficient to consistently wash your hands with soap and water. 

Other sustainable environmental management strategies, as recommended by Professor Tanjena Rume of Jahangirnagar University, include sustainable industrialization. This strategy focuses on investing in technologies that reduce emissions and utilizing more renewable energy sources. It also emphasizes the improvement of wastewater treatment and waste recycling while finding ways to reuse these resources. Rume also emphasizes ecological restoration and ecotourism, a measure that requires international cooperation to ensure a more sustainable future. Finally, on an individual level, we can all work toward making behavioral changes daily to be more environmentally mindful.

As we return to a pre-pandemic normalcy, it is important to consider the environmental impact of our actions. By making united efforts, we can work toward guaranteeing a more sustainable future for all.

By Roksanna Keyvan

On June 17, the nation celebrates World Crocodile Day, a date celebrating a creature that has roamed our planet for millions of years.  Here in South Florida, we also have a distant cousin of the crocodile that is beloved throughout the Everglades, the alligator.  With both species of reptile existing for millions of years, it seems only proper to bring up the age-old debate of alligators versus crocodiles.  While they may seem like similar creatures at first glance, these toothy wonders have some distinct differences that are helpful to recognize.  In honor of World Crocodile day, we will have a reptilian showdown.

1. Distinct Smiles and Measurements

Let’s start with their signature feature – their smiles!  Alligators have a wide U-shaped snout, while crocodiles sport a more V-shaped snout.  They may look charming, but don’t be fooled by their grins.  In fact, their grins hold another secret about how to tell them apart.  When an alligator’s mouth is closed, only their top row of teeth will be visible.  However, when a crocodile’s mouth is closed, both top and bottom rows of teeth are visible to the eye.  Another way to tell them apart is by size.  Crocodiles tend to be on the larger side, with some individuals stretching up to 20 feet in length!  Alligators tend to be more stocky, with the largest individuals reaching around 13-15 feet in length.

2. It’s Always See You Later Alligator, but never ’Where?’

When it comes to geography, alligators hang out in freshwater habitats like swamps and marshes.  Typically, alligators are only found in the Americas and parts of the Caribbean.  Crocodiles, however, inhabit both freshwater and saltwater environments across the world.  One cool thing about Florida, particularly Florida bay, however, is that it is the only place in the world where both crocodiles and alligators can be found in the same habitat!

3. Ecological Importance

Both reptiles play a crucial role in maintaining the balance and health of their ecosystems.  As apex predators, they help regulate populations of other species and contribute to nutrient cycling through their feeding habits.  Alligators, however, play a unique and significant role – particularly within the Everglades of Florida.  Alligators are a keystone species, meaning they are an essential and integral species to the ecosystem in which they inhabit.  Alligators maintain the delicate balance of Florida’s wetland habitats by digging alligator holes, depressions in the ground which serve as critical water sources during dry periods and provide sanctuaries for aquatic life, such as fish, turtles, and other animals.  The key to protecting our keystone species is conservation!

Crocodiles and gators are not just fearsome reptiles; they are ecological stewards and cultural icons.  Despite their distinct differences, the protection of both of these creatures is essential for preserving the overall biodiversity and ecological integrity of their habitats.  Threats such as habitat destruction, pollution, climate change, and illegal hunting pose significant challenges to the survival of these species.  World Crocodile Day provides a platform to raise awareness, support these initiatives, and advocate for stronger conservation measures.  As we continue to celebrate World Crocodile Day, it is important to remember the importance of these reptilian wonders and work towards ensuring their continued protection and conservation through initiatives that spread awareness and educate others.  It seems only fitting to end the blog with a few words, “In a while, Crocodile”.

By Roksanna Keyvan

Celebrating World Sea Turtle Day!

Existing on Earth for hundreds of millions of years, it comes as no surprise that sea turtles are deserving of their own national day.  Turtles play an essential role in marine ecosystems, where they help to maintain the health of coral reefs and seagrass beds.  Unfortunately, nearly every species of sea turtle is endangered due to entanglement in marine debris, destruction of habitats, and hunting for their meat and eggs. 

South Florida is no stranger to native sea turtle populations, with local species including the Loggerhead, the Green Turtle, the Leatherback, the Kemp’s Ridley, and the Hawksbill.  Although Florida is renowned for its wetland areas, sea turtles do not live in the brackish marsh waters of the Everglades.  Rather, they can be found creating nests in the sands of the beaches or swimming just off the coast.

World Sea Turtle Day, founded on world-renowned  sea turtle expert Doctor Andrew Carr’s birthday, recognizes the dangers that sea turtles face and works to encourage others to fight against them.  By advocating for sea turtle conservation, sea turtles can safely swim away from a future of imminent extinction. Globally, efforts have been undertaken to conserve and recover sea turtle populations through research, education, advocacy and protection of the natural habitats upon which they depend.

To get involved in sea turtle conservation efforts in Florida, check out the Sea Turtle Conservancy in Gainesville.  https://conserveturtles.org/sea-turtle-conservancy/

For more information on Florida sea turtles: https://myfwc.com/research/wildlife/sea-turtles/florida/species/

By Roksanna Keyvan

Covering more than 70% of Earth’s surface, oceans play a vital role in regulating the Earth’s climate, providing oxygen, and supporting countless species.  On June 8^th each year, we come together to celebrate World Oceans Day, a global event dedicated to honoring and preserving our magnificent oceans and their precious ecosystems. 

1. Earth’s Blue Guardian & A Haven of Biodiversity

South Florida’s coastal areas are vibrant ecosystems that support an astonishing array of marine life.  From the coral reefs teeming with colorful fish to the mangrove forests that serve as nurseries for countless species, the ocean nurtures a haven of biodiversity.  Beyond supporting Florida ecosystems, oceans are the lifeblood of Earth, influencing weather patterns, removing harmful gasses from the atmosphere, and providing a source of sustenance for millions of people.   Furthermore, the oceans offer a source of continuous inspiration and recreation. However, pollution, overfishing, climate change, habitat destruction, and other human activity continue to threaten these fragile ecosystems.

2. Taking Action through Education, Awareness, and Sustainable Practices

Conservation efforts are crucial in ensuring the long-term health and resilience of our oceans.  World’s Oceans Day encourages us to take proactive steps such as reducing single-use plastics, minimizing our ecological footprints, supporting sustainable fishing practices, participating in beach clean-ups, and advocating for marine protected areas.  Education plays a particularly significant role in awareness efforts amplifying the impact of conservation efforts and inspiring others to join the cause.

3. Empowering Our Coastal Communities Through Preservation

South Florida’s coastal communities are intricately linked to the ocean.  The livelihoods of fishermen, divers, and tourism-dependent businesses rely on healthy ocean ecosystems. Fostering an understanding of our interconnectedness with the ocean will allow us to cultivate a new generation of ocean advocates.  By supporting sustainable tourism, advocating for responsible fishing practices, and championing the interests of these communities, we can ensure a harmonious balance between human activities and the health of our oceans.

Together, we can become the driving force behind positive change, both locally and globally.  Let this day be a reminder of our duty to preserve the wonders of our ocean and inspire others to join us on this journey of conservation.  Together, we can make a difference and create a brighter, sustainable future for South Florida and beyond.

World Reef Awareness Day promotes the importance of reef ecosystems around the world. The coral reef ecosystem is extremely diverse and provides habitat and natural resources for many different species including turtles, anemones, fish, and crabs. Coral reefs are also a fragile ecosystem that have been on the decline due in part to human actions such as: 

•  Coral mining – the act of removing coral from the ecosystem for other uses such as building materials and road fill. This has many damaging effects on the ecosystem from the methods used to the loss of both habitat and biodiversity within the ecosystem. 
•  Overfishing – the act of removing more fish or organisms from the population than the population can produce. This has led to a decline of populations and species within the ecosystem which forces competition among the ecosystem due to a lack of resources available. 
•  Coral bleaching – a result of warmer temperatures (caused by global warming) which cause algae that live in the coral to leave due to stress. Coral has a symbiotic relationship with algae where the coral depends on the algae for food; without the algae (their food source) the coral becomes white since the algae give the coral its color and becomes more susceptible to disease. 

These actions have a negative effect on the health of the ecosystem itself, which in turn impacts the health of other ecosystems as well. This is because the coral reef ecosystem is interconnected with other ecosystems such as coastal ecosystems and ocean ecosystems by providing habitat for organisms or protecting these ecosystems from damage and degradation. The decline of coral reefs also impacts humans since coral reefs help the integrity of coastal regions which protect coastal areas from decline, flooding, and tidal waves by supporting foundations and decreasing the impact the wave comes to shore by acting as a wall below the surface. Coral reefs also do a lot of carbon sequestration or holding of carbon since coral takes in and stores carbon dioxide.  

Development in coastal areas and pollution have also had effects on coral reef ecosystems both directly and indirectly. Directly, development has either removed parts of the coral reef or caused the degradation of the ecosystem. This has also directly affected the organisms within the ecosystem as well due to habitat loss. Indirectly, debris and pollution that contaminate the ecosystem have damaging and long-lasting effects on the ecosystem.  

While all of this may seem dire, there are things being done daily to help reverse the damage that has been done. This includes replanting coral and restoring coral, setting up protected coastal and marine areas to help prevent any further loss or damage of these natural ecosystems, as well as educating the public and helping raise awareness of the importance of these ecosystems.  

Sources Used:  

What Is Coral Mining And What Can We Do To Fight It? – ReefCause 

What is coral bleaching? (noaa.gov) 

Every year thousands of young animals are found by people. Most of these wild animals do not need to be rescued. Humans are always a young wild animal’s last hope for survival; never its best hope. A young animal should be removed from the wild only after you have received direct advice from a Wildlife Rehabber. 

Is the animal an orphan? 

An “orphan” is a young animal that is unable to care for itself and whose parents cannot be found or are known to be dead. It is natural for all young animals to explore the world alone once they leave the nest. If you have found a healthy young animal that is able to walk and is fully furred or feathered, it probably does not need your help. Its parents are usually nearby, even if they are not visible to you. Observe the young animal from a distance for some time before calling for help. 

Is the animal injured or weak?

If the young animal appears weak or injured, you should call a wildlife rehabilitator or nature center for further guidance on assessing the situation. If an animal has been attacked by a cat or dog, assume there is an injury even if it is not visible. 

Should I intervene?

The best way to determine if an animal is in need of your help is to contact a wildlife center BEFORE you intervene. Most times, people that believe they are rescuing baby wild animals are advised to place them back where they found them so their parents can do their jobs. Remember, parent animals will not go for their young while you are around, so don’t panic if you can’t see the mom. 

Questions about an animal you think is in need of help? Contact the Sawgrass Nature Center and Wildlife Hospital at 954-752-9453.

Endangered Species Day is recognized annually in May and strives to educate the public about these animals, highlighting the role they play in their native ecosystems. Endangered species are important to study and conserve because all animals play an important role in the ecosystem they live in and that cannot be replaced. This year is special because Endangered Species Day also falls on the 50^th anniversary of the Endangered Species Act which is a fundamental piece of legislation in the conservation of not only animals, but their habitats as well. This act established legal protection for fish, wildlife, and plants that are listed as threatened or endangered. This law helped to set up plans for population conservation and establish funding for the protection of these species. This can include funding and plans for species monitoring, conservation efforts, and/or habitat restoration.  

Partial List of Protected Species in Florida:  

• Gopher Tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus) 

• Florida Manatee (Trichechus manatus latirostris) 
• Florida Panther (Puma concolor) 
• Green Turtle (Chelonia mydas) 
• Kemp’s Ridley (Lepidochelys kempii) 
• Hawksbill Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata) 

While it may seem dire to list all these endangered species, it is important to note the work that has been done to help to help endangered species in general. There are several cases here in Florida of work that has been done to help improve the population and conservation status of species that has been successful thanks to work being done every day. Species like the American Alligator, Florida Panther, and manatee species (among others) have had success stories with reversing population decrease thanks to active study and work being done to educate the public and improving the habitat that these animals live in. The American Alligator specifically has come back so successfully that it was able to have its endangered status removed which has not happened to many animal species. This is thanks to active study and conservation efforts.  

Find local events and celebrations in your area by following the link below: 

Endangered Species Day – Endangered Species Coalition 

World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD) recognizes migratory birds all around the world, not just here in the Americas. This was brought about by the Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center to help bring about awareness regarding threats that migratory birds are facing. Some of these threats include loss of habitat and the loss of these species in general. Since the beginning, this educational campaign has continued to spread awareness through community outreach events during World Migratory Bird Day to engage the public. This event stretches across the globe to help bring awareness around the different flyways that are used during the migratory season. These flyways include the Americas Flyway which stretches from Canada all the way down to the southern tip of South America, the African-Eurasian Flyway which stretches from South Africa to the edge of India to Greenland, and the East Asian-Australasian Flyway which stretches from Australia to the northern parts of eastern Russia and the western parts of Canada.  

These flyways are super important for these migratory birds since they rely on these routes to travel to and from their migration grounds. These flyway routes tend follow the topographical features in a north-to-south direction. The main flyway routes listed above are mapped and dependent upon the boundaries on either side- mountain ranges, ocean, etc. These migratory birds tend to travel north in the springtime to have cooler weather and south in the wintertime to have warmer weather. This natural adaptation helps these animals survive throughout the year. Rather than adapting to the environment they live in, they instead have adapted to migrate thousands of miles a year to ensure survival. This provides them with a wider habitat range and more access to necessary resources for survival but also poses issues as well. Migration requires a lot of energy and can be a very vulnerable time for these species. Part of the reason you see migration occurring in big groups for some species is that this adaptation offers protection and motivation for individuals to keep moving. 

To find local events in your area go to the website linked below:  

https://www.worldmigratorybirdday.org/events-map

Sources Used:  

Water #WMBD2023 | World Migratory Bird Day 

World Migratory Bird Day | in the Americas