Environmental Resilience in the Pandemic Years 2020–2021

Table of Contents

1. Frontmatter

2. Chapter 1. Covid-19 Pandemic: Towards the Nature’s Ecological Resilience

   Musa Najiah, Kok Leong Lee, Musa Nadirah, Rasina Rasid, Hassan Ibrahim Sheikh

   Abstract

   The novel coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic or known as COVID-19 pandemic has triggered a global public health crisis. Drastic and sweeping measures taken by countries around the world to curb the spread of COVID-19, including border shutdowns, travel bans, full or partial lockdowns, business closures, home confinement, and others have brought economic activities to a near halt, leading to an economic crisis. These measures have also had positive and negative effects on the environment and biodiversity. Nevertheless, the pandemic has had significant effects on nature’s ecological resilience. Our review demonstrates a significant association between contingency measures and improvements in air and land quality, as well as an increase in wildlife populations. However, there have also been negative effects such as an increase in waste, which further endangers the water and land ecology. Ecological resilience is essential since all ecosystems, whether lithosphere, atmosphere or hydrosphere, face hazards that require the identification of mitigation risks. Resilience can be seen as a factor influencing adaptive capacity, which, in turn, is an element of the vulnerability of nature’s ecological system. This paper provides a brief review of nature’s ecological resilience and sustainability during the COVID-19 pandemic.

3. Chapter 2. Air Quality Changes in Guilin During the COVID-19 Prevention and Control Period

   Qing Liu, Juan Wang, Jiuju Zhang

   Abstract

   The air quality changes and air pollution characteristics in Guilin during the COVID-19 prevention and control period were analyzed by the paired t-test, Wilcoxon signed rank-sum test, chi-square test and pollutant characteristic radar chart using the mean daily AQI and the concentration of 6 air pollutants (PM2.5, PM10, SO₂, NO₂, CO, O₃) from January to March of 2017–2021. The results showed that the air quality in Guilin was generally good. Compared with 2017–2019, the mean daily AQI in 2020 decreased by 29.59%, and the coal burning, dust and motor vehicle pollution reduced, indicating that the air quality was improved significantly. In the strict pandemic prevention and control period, the AQI and the days with PM2.5 pollution decreased by 52.14% and 70.59% respectively, and the days with PM10, PM2.5, SO₂, NO₂ all decreased by more than 50%. Later, the coal and motor vehicle pollution showed signs of increase, suggesting that the type of air pollution changed from combined pollution to coal burning pollution. Compared with 2020, the coal burning, dust and motor vehicle pollution in 2021 experienced a retaliatory rebound, and the air quality basically recovered to the pre-pandemic level, suggesting that the type of air pollution changed from coal burning and motor vehicle pollution to coal burning and dust pollution.

4. Chapter 3. Agricultural-Food Systems and Environmental Health in the Era of Covid-19

   Nur Hidayah Hamidi, Osumanu Haruna Ahmed, Adiza Alhassan Musah, Cristalina Jalil Marsal, Syahirah Shahlehi, Khairul Hidayatullah Basir, Mohd Hamzah Mohd Nasir

   Abstract

   The emergence of novel coronavirus in Wuhan city of China has become a global health emergency. This health pandemic has been affecting normal daily life in every sector around the world particularly the agriculture-food ecosystem. Therefore, this review presents information on the effects of the ongoing global pandemic on the agricultural-food ecosystems and the probable environmental resilience and impact during COVID-19 pandemic years. The COVID-19 pandemic being the most recent in the line of coronavirus zoonotic infections, has created a severe disruption never before in the human history because it affects all work of life including exploiting social, economic, institutional, and environment vulnerabilities and intensify food insecurity, yet pollution is declining and nature is recovering its natural state. Preventive measures implemented by many countries are likely to affect vulnerable groups including workers, small scale farmers, low-income families, and students faced the worst hit among all. Waste generation is in the course of the pandemic is alarming, if not worrying. Educational institutions are searching ways to fill the loss of learning. The COVID-19 pandemic has given us the opportunity to introduce online learning. The COVID-19 pandemic calls for urgent policy solutions to keep the economy afloat and people to keep their jobs and incomes. Although the pandemic creates some major issues for the food system, it also presents a good chance to speed up transformation in the food and agriculture industry that will improve its resilience to a variety of threats including climate change.

5. Chapter 4. Interruptions in the Agricultural Production System and Food Value Chain in the Times Covid-19 Pandemic

   Prisca Divra Johan, Osumanu Haruna Ahmed, Adiza Alhassan Musah, Nur Thaqifah Salihah Salleh, Mohd Hafiz Jamaludin, Rose Abdullah, Anisah Syakirah Anwari, Zarina Zainuddin

   Abstract

   The incidence and spread of the coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19) has created an imbalance in all sectors worldwide with a profound disruption on the global economy. Social distancing, quarantine regulations, and strict travel restrictions have led to a major reduction in the workforce and loss of jobs across all industrial sectors. The agrarian sectors such as agriculture, fisheries, and livestock which are vital aspects of food systems have not been spared by COVID-19. The agricultural sector forms the backbone of the global economy as it provides livelihood to the developed and developing countries. Therefore, disruptions in food security and the agricultural sector is having and may continue to have far-reaching impacts on the agricultural ecosystem services. As a result, the pandemic has demonstrated the fragility of agriculture and the related food chain. Owing to the importance of the agrarian sectors, this review paper highlights the interruptions in the food and agriculture industry as a result of the on-going COVID-19 pandemic. The current state of the agriculture ecosystem in relation to the COVID-19 has indicated the importance of sustainable and resilient food system approaches to ensure future food security and food provision.

6. Chapter 5. The Effect of Environmental Factors on Covid-19: A Systematic Review

   Nazri Che Dom, Norezuan Abdul Gani, Mohd Shukri Mohd Aris, Samsuri Abdullah, Hasber Salim, Sharifah Norkhadijah Syed Ismail, Nopadol Precha

   Abstract

   As a result of its global spread, COVID-19 is currently regarded as a pandemic. Whether or not climatic factors have an effect on COVID-19 transmission and diffusion is a crucial aspect. On the basis of the significance of relationships between environmental factors (humidity, temperature, rainfall, population density, and speed of wind) and COVID-19, this research offers a thorough evaluation and meta-analysis. Review Manager (RevMan) version 5.4 was used to conduct the meta-analysis. The study's 16 articles have conducted in-depth analysis on over 110 datasets that are country-specific. We noted significant correlations between temperature (0.31 [0.26, 0.39] for fixed effect incidence), humidity (0.64 [0.55, 0.75] for fixed effect incidence), wind speed (0.50 [0.32, 0.77] for fixed effect incidence), and population density (1.53 [1.34, 1.75] for fixed effect incidence) and the incidence of COVID-19 (p < 0.01). As a result, we can show that environmental aspects may be important elements of COVID-19.

7. Chapter 6. Covid-19 Pandemic: The Effect Towards Solid Waste Generation and Sustainable Environmental Approaches in Malaysia

   Suhaila Mohd Omar, Ahmed Jalal Khan Chowdhury

   Abstract

   Managing waste in a sustainable manner is a huge challenge for developing countries like Malaysia, with its rapidly expanding urban areas and growing population. To address this, the Malaysian government has been working hard to promote effective waste management methods that reduce landfill waste. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has brought a new set of environmental challenges, especially in terms of municipal and clinical waste generation and disposal. As a result of the pandemic, Malaysia has seen a reduction of 5% in municipal solid waste volume. However, there has been a worrying increase in food waste, which accounts for 36% of solid waste generated in 2021. In addition, the generation of clinical waste has increased significantly (43.9 %) and a large portion of medical waste comprises single-use plastic. Despite these challenges, Malaysia remains committed to environmental sustainability as evidenced by its established roadmap and strategic planning. The efficient management of solid waste is crucial in promoting better environmental health and requires active participation from communities and industries to support government policies and plans. This article reviews the impacts of the pandemic on municipal and clinical waste generation and disposal, as well as the ongoing sustainable effort in Malaysia.

8. Chapter 7. Environmental Benefits Evaluation of Construction CO2 Emission Reduction Management Using System Dynamics Approach

   Haixin Wang, Shengsong Wei, Xin Chen, Zuhe Wang, Qian Xu

   Abstract

   With the rapid development of urbanization, a huge amount of greenhouse-gas has been generated from increasing higher amounts of construction activities, which has significant negative impacts on the environment if they are not properly managed. Therefore, more and more scholars start to research the CO₂ emissions reduction of construction industry. However, it has been determined that existing studies with respect to CO₂ emissions reduction are mainly carried out from a static perspective, without considering the dynamic and interdependent nature of the whole CO₂ emissions reduction system. Therefore, based on literature review and interview survey, Vensim software was used to establish a system dynamic model of construction CO₂ emissions reduction management at the construction stage and simulate the environmental benefits of construction CO₂ emissions reduction management. The application of the proposed model is shown by using a case. The simulation results indicate that the CO₂ emissions reduction management can reduce 10.84% of CO₂ emissions. In the meantime, the CO₂ emissions reduction management achieves good environmental benefits including saving energy consumption of 59,718.5 kgce, saving waste landfill of 8434.28 m³ and the reduction of global warming potential of 3620.51 tCO_2-e. Scenario analysis reveals that using low-carbon materials has the optimal reduction effect in single measure, which can reduce 16.50% of CO₂emissions. Compared with a single measure, the maximum emissions reduction of multiple measures can reach 21.05%. Therefore, in order to realize best environmental benefits of construction CO₂ emissions reduction management, multiple measures should be used simultaneously, such as using low-carbon materials, recycling and reusing materials and improving operation efficiency of construction equipment. This study can help construction professionals determine the optimal emissions reduction strategy and provide references for project managers in assessing the reduction outcomes of construction projects and the environmental benefits.

9. Chapter 8. Covid-19 Impacts on ASEAN Aquatic Environment: Towards Mitigation Actions for Impending Resilience on Aquaculture and Fisheries in Brunei Darussalam

   Wanidawati Tamat, Wafi Diah, Cristalina Jalil Marsal, Ahmed Jalal Khan Chowdhury, Anisah Syakirah Anwari, Mohd Hafiz Jamaludin, Adibah Johari

   Abstract

   A novel coronavirus disease called COVID-19 is a persistent problem on a global scale. Worldwide aquatic food production is affected by COVID-19, much like other sectors that produce food. Aquaculture methods and output are being negatively impacted by the COVID-19 epidemic and the ensuing lockdowns and limitations. Aquaculture is the practice of raising aquatic organisms for human consumption in aquatic environments. Aquaculture operations cannot be carried out without the involvement of humans. Because humans have manipulated freshwater, brackish water, and marine ecosystems to develop aquaculture, different aquaculture methods are the results of interactions between humans and the environment. The COVID-19 pandemic in Southeast Asia has had a significant negative impact on the fisheries and aquaculture industry, particularly on the socioeconomic circumstances of the stakeholders, such as fishers, fish farmers, traders, and consumers. In fact, the COVID-19 pandemic had adverse effects on the global aquatic environment affecting both artisanal and commercial fishing as well as aquaculture (species, markets, and farm financial capacity), producers supplying the food services industry (hotels, restaurants, and catering), working conditions along the supply chain (particularly for women and other vulnerable workers), and fisheries management practices. However, this review paper has discussed comprehensively the influence of COVID-19 on the aquatic environments towards various post-pandemic mitigating methods for the aquaculture and fishing industries in the ASEAN region, with a distinct emphasis on Brunei Darussalam.

10. Chapter 9. Fishery Resilience in Covid-19 Post-Pandemic Era: Sustainable Environmental Approach for Potential Challenges in Asia

    Akbar John, Ahmed Jalal Khan Chowdhury, Mohammad Bodrul Munir, Rose Abdullah, Zaima Azira Zainal Abidin, Noor Faizul Hadry Nordin

    Abstract

    The COVID-19 pandemic has had a substantial impact on the global fishery industry, causing widespread disruption to supply chains and market demand. This has led to significant economic challenges for fishing communities, particularly in developing countries where fishing is a major source of livelihood. In the challenge of the pandemic, it is important to consider ways to build resilience in the fishery industry to ensure its continued viability in the time to come. One approach to achieving fishery resilience is to focus on sustainable fishing practices. This involves implementing measures to minimize the impacts of fishing on the natural aquatic environment by reducing human intervention such as bycatch and protecting critical habitats. Additionally, investment in aquaculture can help to reduce dependence on wild-capture fishing and provide a more controlled and sustainable source of fish for human consumption. Another important aspect of building fishery resilience is improving supply chain management. This involves establishing more efficient and effective processes for catching, processing, and distributing fish and seafood products, to minimize waste and ensure that products reach markets in a timely manner. Improving supply chain management can also help to reduce the economic impacts of the pandemic by ensuring that fish and seafood products are available for sale even in the face of market disruptions. In conclusion, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on the global fishery industries especially Asia–Pacific region, highlighting the need for greater resilience in this critical sector. By means of focusing on sustainable fishing practices and improving supply viability for generations to come chain management, the industry can develop a more sustainable and resilient future, ensuring its viability for generations into the near future.

11. Chapter 10. Life Cycle Assessment as Potential Tool to Gauge the Environmental Impact During Covid-19 Pandemic: Towards Better Waste Management

    Noor Faizul Hadry Nordin, Husna Ahmad Tajuddin, Ahmed Jalal Khan Chowdhury, Osumanu Haruna Ahmed, Akbar John, Bryan Raveen Nelson

    Abstract

    COVID-19 pandemic hit the world since December 2019 and by 31st December 2022 it has achieved 651,918,402 cumulative cases with 6,656,601 cumulative deaths around the globe. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the application of Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) in waste management has been crucial to minimize long-term risks to human and environmental health. Studies suggested that there has been an increase in domestic and biomedical wastes produced during the COVID-19 pandemic, putting additional pressure on waste management systems, especially to developing countries with lack of effective infrastructure. The COVID-19 pandemic has revealed vulnerabilities in waste management chains, which could hinder disease containment and increase environmental pollution. The pandemic has led to an abrupt collapse of waste management chains, thus the application of LCA in waste management is crucial to prevent long-term risks. Several studies recommended fast adaptation through strengthening policies related to infectious waste, such as protection for waste collection workers and the application of LCA in waste management to prevent long-term risks. Additionally, the World Health Organization has called for reforms surrounding the disposal of medical waste, recommending eco-friendly packaging and reusable PPE to reduce plastic waste. This chapter is exploring for the potential of LCA approach in determining the environmental impact of different elements in waste management practices during the COVID-19 pandemic.

12. Chapter 11. The Environmental Impacts and Transformation on the Tourism During COVID-19

    Zhongxian Jiang, Huanna Zhao, Fa Yun, Wenting Jiang

    Abstract

    Different festival environments and transformations may provide conceptual resources for transforming tourism into more responsible and sustainable practices. Considering together the scientific methodology of two typically disparate ‘environments’, and Transformation Tourism, the COVID-19 pandemic was also treated as a spatial–temporal beginning for the transformation of the tourism industry. This study was also conducted to determine tourist behavior after the Covid-19 pandemic by identifying tourist typology and tourist travel motivations. A questionnaire-based survey method was used. An online survey was done, and responses were obtained from various tourist destinations of China. This approach also helps dismantle the mechanisms that perpetuate the pernicious aspects of host-host disparities in tourism. After the reopening of borders, starting of public mobility, and resumption of recreational activities, the transformative ability of festivals to transform their participants, both in and out of highly perforated times, is not to the extent that the distinction between guest and host is completely erased. The creative and community responses of such transformative festival cultures and past crises were linked to participation, civic responsibility, etc. Values were presented as an example of how people can help overcome shared emergencies and provision of further sustainable tourism during the COVID-19. Such a destructive intersubjective reversal was not temporary but an acknowledgment of the common humanity, participants of cumulative and transformative social and ecological projects.