The Impact of City Lockdowns on Surroundings and Behavioral Changes

During the lockdown period, some regions experienced significant changes, while others remained largely unaffected. In this piece, I draw upon my observations and insights to explore the changes in my local surroundings and the behavioral shifts that occurred among individuals.

The Unchanged Surroundings

I live in an area where there have been no noticeable changes. Despite the global situation, I have not altered my lifestyle or surroundings in any substantial way. I do not use cleaning products, masks, or any other personal protective equipment (PPE) unless absolutely necessary, such as in stores or religious gatherings. The absence of these changes reflects the personal choice to maintain a natural and undisturbed environment where masks and other precautions are used only when required.

Human Behavior: A Study in Taxonomy

From a biological and anthropological perspective, humans are part of the natural environment, akin to other species. A year ago, people in my local environment began donning masks, reducing their outdoor presence, and altering their behavior. These changes were not just physical but also mental, leading to a rise in depression and anger among some individuals. The way these altered individuals reacted to unmasked individuals often resulted in confrontations and name-calling. In taxonomic terms, this phenomenon is referred to as a virtue signal.

The behavior of foraging for food and goods less frequently led to a transformation in the local psyche. With less interaction in public spaces like restaurants and shopping centers, people began relying more on online resources and home deliveries. This shift resulted in an interesting change in the environment, as more people started working from home, leading to increased internet access and a boost in home deliveries. As a result, there has been a significant improvement in the cleanliness of the residential areas, with businesses taking more notice of hygiene and cleanliness.

Environmental Improvements and Behavioral Shifts

One of the more noticeable positive outcomes of the lockdown period is the improvement in the natural environment. Reduced traffic on nearby highways allowed for the repair of a 4-lane closure caused by water erosion to be completed a month ahead of schedule. This not only improved traffic conditions but also reduced pollution levels in the area. Additionally, local road improvements, including paving, patching, and marking, have enhanced travel safety and environmental conditions.

The shift towards remote working has also allowed more families to gain internet access, leading to an increase in home deliveries and a decrease in the amount of time spent commuting on highways. This has resulted in less litter and fewer cases of the common cold and pollen-related issues. In communities, many people have taken the opportunity to engage in home improvement projects and cleanups, contributing to a cleaner and more organized living environment.

Challenges and Concerns

However, not all changes have been positive. The littering of PPE masks by some individuals, particularly discarded on the ground, has posed a new environmental issue. Dots and markings on floors serve as reminders to maintain safe distances, but enforcement has been inconsistent. Furthermore, governmental actions taken during the pandemic have raised concerns about the erosion of personal freedoms and income for citizens beyond what was necessary.

Despite these challenges, the study of human behavior and its impact on the environment is ongoing. As more data is gathered, we hope to gain a better understanding of the long-term effects of such behavioral changes and how we can mitigate any negative impacts. The continued evolution of this study will provide valuable insights for future pandemic responses and public health measures.