Coronavirus puts spotlight on landmark year for nature

The pandemic has disrupted conservation work and funding, with potential repercussions for years to come, according to conservation groups.

But we can seize the opportunity to push for stronger action to protect the natural world, said Dr Diogo Veríssimo and Dr Nisha Owen from campaign group On The Edge Conservation, according to BBC News.

The pandemic struck in what was meant to be a landmark year for biodiversity.

New goals for protecting the natural world are due to be agreed in October.

While lockdown has been linked to a number of positive environmental changes, including wildlife reclaiming urban spaces, we know very little about how large areas of the world that host vast quantities of biodiversity have been faring, said Dr Owen.