Presentation Type
Poster Presentation
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic led to unprecedented global disruptions, including significant changes in air quality due to lockdown measures, reduced industrial activity, and shifts in transportation patterns. Air pollution, primarily from nitrogen oxides (NOₓ), carbon dioxide (CO₂), and particulate matter (PM2.5), is a major environmental and public health concern. While some studies suggest temporary improvements in air quality during lockdowns, long-term impacts remain uncertain across different regions. To examine this, we investigated the research question: "What are the global differences in air quality due to the Covid-19 pandemic?" Using peer-reviewed studies from the Greenfile and ScienceDirect databases, along with EPA data, we analyze changes in emissions, pollution levels, and public health outcomes across various countries. This study considers factors such as differences in lockdown severity, industrial output, and post-pandemic economic recovery. This research aligns with Project Drawdown’s mission by exploring how reduced fossil fuel consumption during the pandemic affected emissions and what lessons can be applied to long-term climate strategies. We will specifically examine the extent of pollution reductions, variations between urban and rural areas, and the potential for permanent air quality improvements through policy shifts. We include observed trends and implications for future climate action. Results will be discussed.
Faculty Mentor
Dr. Emily Stutzman
Recommended Citation
Spencer, Jude; McGee, Ian; and Solis-Martinez, Brandon, "What are the global differences in air quality due to the Covid-19 pandemic?" (2025). Student Scholar Symposium. 166.
https://digitalcollections.lipscomb.edu/student_scholars_symposium/2025/Full_schedule/166
What are the global differences in air quality due to the Covid-19 pandemic?
The COVID-19 pandemic led to unprecedented global disruptions, including significant changes in air quality due to lockdown measures, reduced industrial activity, and shifts in transportation patterns. Air pollution, primarily from nitrogen oxides (NOₓ), carbon dioxide (CO₂), and particulate matter (PM2.5), is a major environmental and public health concern. While some studies suggest temporary improvements in air quality during lockdowns, long-term impacts remain uncertain across different regions. To examine this, we investigated the research question: "What are the global differences in air quality due to the Covid-19 pandemic?" Using peer-reviewed studies from the Greenfile and ScienceDirect databases, along with EPA data, we analyze changes in emissions, pollution levels, and public health outcomes across various countries. This study considers factors such as differences in lockdown severity, industrial output, and post-pandemic economic recovery. This research aligns with Project Drawdown’s mission by exploring how reduced fossil fuel consumption during the pandemic affected emissions and what lessons can be applied to long-term climate strategies. We will specifically examine the extent of pollution reductions, variations between urban and rural areas, and the potential for permanent air quality improvements through policy shifts. We include observed trends and implications for future climate action. Results will be discussed.