Here are some of the changes that lockdown has brought and may remain after:
9. Enjoying nature
Many of us have been able to hear birds singing from our open windows and balconies during lockdown in an uplifting sound of spring. Veteran naturalist Sir David Attenborough has called for a new relationship that respects rather than exploits the wonders of nature. Sir David, who is a vice-president of Fauna & Flora International, said in May: As the world responds to this pandemic, we must be led by the science, and the science is telling us that the destruction of nature, and encroachment of humans and industry into natural habitats, is making the emergence of new and dangerous viruses ever more likely. Photo: pexels.com
10. Work
Home networks have been under increased strain with more people working from home, children using online platforms for school work, and greater gaming and streaming as a source of entertainment. Broadband providers have been holding up against a surge in demand, with download speeds only falling an average of 2%, analysis by Ofcom suggests. The communications regulator measured broadband performance for 3,481 users at the beginning and end of March, to compare results before and after lockdown started. Despite a spike in usage, data suggests the average download speed remained stable, dropping only 2%, although some networks suffered the effects of increased use more than others. Photo: pexels.com