This pandemic tells an awful story of human catastrophes that can befall this beautiful planet we live on.

There are many reasons why this pandemic was so severe and has made such a great impact History and science will show the mistakes and lessons learned, but there is no doubt and no need to do research to see that human disruption of the natural environment can cause such phenomena. Over the past few centuries, human activities had a continually growing need for land and resources. They unsustainably utilized earth and habitats, spaces needed to house and feed of thousands other species. These species moved to other places or shared space with humans. And we are not talking about dogs and cats, which have lived with us for so many years that we developed and have immune responses for the same diseases. We are talking about wild animals that did not having contact with different human populations before.

A great example are tribes of people in the amazon. They are immune to diseases of the forest, but they do not have immunity for diseases of a city. We can get sick from them and they can get sick from us. Contact should not be allowed and for sure sharing the forest is extremely risky. But this is what we have been doing until now, risking everything for unsustainable consumption. Now that we have more time to think, we should ask ourselves the cliché “what will I give to the future generation?”. As consumers, we have the strongest power: we shape the market. Each choice in New York could have an impact in Africa or in Asia. Buying local, seasonal, organic, cruelty free agricultural products can help the environment to thrive again. And allow each species have its own home and diseases.

On the other hand, overconsumption and not reusing products will create a greater need for resources, materials, space, and transportation, pushing other species into smaller spaces and prompting them to invade areas where humans live. At this moment, as consumers, you can make a new start. Change your diet and health habits. Stop overconsumption and spend mainly on your basic needs. Create a greater need for a safer planet. In the end you will be happier and feel good about yourself. Always remember: less is more.

* The above is not medical advice but mere suggestions for improving your diet. Before reach herbal use you should consult your doctor, especially those who have health issues, are pregnant or are under the age of 6.

Evropi-Sofia Dalampira by Agriculturist-MSc Botany-Biology and PhD Candidate in Agricultural-Environmental Education and Science Communication.