General Overview

Pangolins may have become intermediate hosts between bats and humans in wildlife markets in Wuhan, China

COVID-19 is the latest zoonotic virus to emerge over the past 40 years. Zoonotic viruses normally live in wild animals and only cross over to human beings when their wilderness habitats are disturbed, or when these animals are subjected to human predation or trafficking. Other zoonotic diseases have emerged throughout history, primarily as a consequence of the domestication of animals like pigs, chickens, and cows. Examples of common zoonotic diseases that we have learned to live with thanks to modern medicine include measles and chickenpox.

The true scope of harms associated with COVID-19 and climate change were well-known before these problems reached a crisis level. Scientists, public health experts, and activists who have tried to sound the alarm have been sidelined by politicians and business interests intent on preserving the profitable status quo.

Habitat loss, the trafficking of wild animals, industrial agriculture, and disruptions to the natural environment all contribute to the proliferation of zoonotic diseases and pandemics. The same human activity that has brought imbalance to ecosystems and contributed to climate change has also laid the groundwork for ever deadlier and more frequent pandemics like COVID-19.

Moving Forward

Traditional Indigenous cultures and philosophies should be consulted to help counter our culture’s harmful practice of viewing the natural world solely as a resource to be exploited. The long history of Indigenous land stewardship should be made common knowledge in the service of protecting what remains of our vital wilderness areas and ecosystems.

Traditional Indigenous cultures that understood our interconnectedness with the natural world have been maligned as “savage,” less sophisticated, and not worthy of much attention. In fact, these worldviews and practices will be key to mitigating the worst effects of both climate change and future pandemics.

Educators, artists, and activists must do more to foster a greater awareness of our planet’s fascinating history, including the history of our own interconnectedness with nature. This awareness would help reduce the likelihood of future pandemics and environmental disasters.

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