Ever since the COVID-19 pandemic began in Wuhan, China, media has been taken over by devastating deaths and nightmare-flashing stories. However, what no one seems to mention is how beneficial the pandemic has actually been. From shelters adopting out more animals to the Himalayas in India being visible for the first time in 30 years, there might be some light at the end of the tunnel for this seemingly pain-wrenching virus. 

    Global warming has been one of the most pressing issues around the world due to pollution caused by factories, large cities, and even just every day transportation. Since the coronavirus began, however, it has put a new twist on pollution. With mandatory quarantine all over the  world, and factories not being able to function properly, the amount of pollution around the world has decreased, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. (EPA)

     The Venice canals are turning a new, beautiful shade of clear blue, and dolphins are appearing where they would have never appeared before the lockdown. With less gondola and motor boat traffic, the river has been clearer than it has in 60 years. 

     Another heartwarming story surrounds one of the most polluted countries in the world. For the first time in several decades, the Himalayas in Punjab, India are visible from more than 100 miles away because of the lockdowns caused by the virus. These seemingly horrible lockdowns are helping the environment immensely, and may be what the world needed to get back on top of global warming.

     According to Yifang Zhu, a professor at UCLA’s Fielding School of Public Health, the EPA’s Air Quality Index was at about 60 (moderate). Since then, it has improved by around 20 percent and has been the longest stretch of good air quality since 1995, according to the Washington Post.    

     On a local level, many people ponder the struggles of Missoula’s homeless population during this terrifying time. The Disabled American Veterans organization that was created by the United States Congress for disabled, and often homeless, veterans, has begun offering cash grants to the affected veterans. This could help a portion of the homeless population in Missoula get back on their feet. 

     Pets are also loving the new attention that owners are giving them while they are required to stay at home. Sheltered pets have even benefitted from the pandemic. An article from the Missoulian states that, “Pet adoptions rise during coronavirus pandemic.” Busy work schedules and social calendars are starting to open up free time due to people being required to remain at home. This has created the perfect opening for pets from shelters to finally be adopted or fostered. Everyone wants a companion during the pandemic, and shelters are often where people have been looking. This has given even the oldest animals at the shelters the opportunity to receive a home away from the shelter, and get the love and attention they have always dreamt of.

This fight against the virus is one that doesn’t need the help of lethal weapons to kill hundreds of thousands of people. However, in these difficult times, there is always something good to come out of evil. Although these times feel as if it’s the worst possible thing that could occur, the whole world is in this together, holding hands from six feet apart.