WATCH | Why the lockdown is good for the environment

The current ongoing nationwide lockdown has seen many people stay indoors to prevent further spread of the coronavirus.

This means that there are fewer cars on the road with traffic and safety officials only allowing people to drive to stock up on food and medical supplies.

'Fresher' air

While Covid-19 might be threatening the health of many, on the flipside though, the lack of cars mean fewer C02 emissions and slightly cleaner air - albeit for a couple of weeks.

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Not having to breathe in a smog of thick smoke from a diesel vehicle or an engine whose piston rings needs replacing while you're stuck in traffic, can make breathing a bit difficult especially for those with respiratory issues.

                                                                       Image: iStock

According to National Geographic, ozone-depleting substances called chlorofluorocarbons, or CFCs are much more harmful to the environment over time.

Onus on automakers

The primary focus of automakers is to build cars that are not only fuel efficient but also release no harmful gasses into the atmosphere, giving rise to the electric vehicle.

Many have already joined the EV revolution with more companies akin to the idea of making most of their cars hybrid or fully-electric.

Soon normal service will resume and the air will once again be filled with dastardly fumes. 

Compiled by: Robin Classen