Climate change and COVID-19: shared challenges, divergent perspectives, and proposed collaborative solutions

Area of Science:

• Social Sciences
• Environmental Science
• Public Health

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic has caused widespread physical, economic, and social disruption since late 2019.
• The emergence of COVID-19 coincided with the ongoing climate change crisis, necessitating a dual approach to global challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a narrative review of the impacts of both the COVID-19 and climate change pandemics.
• To suggest integrated strategies for policymakers and practitioners to address these interconnected global crises.

Main Methods:

• A narrative review methodology was employed.
• Searches were conducted in Scopus and Web of Science databases.
• Analysis utilized contemporary social theory to examine findings.

Main Results:

• Technological advancements have disproportionately affected vulnerable populations.
• Pandemics manifest across both macro- and micro-level dimensions.
• Underlying structural disparities exacerbate pandemic impacts.

Conclusions:

• A collaborative approach is essential for combating COVID-19 and climate change.
• Lessons from the industrialized world are crucial for effective pandemic response.
• Addressing interconnected socioeconomic issues concurrently can reduce the impact of global catastrophes.