Amid the worldwide troubles caused by the COVID-19 outbreak, there has also been a spot of brightness: as the world stayed at home and cities abided by extended lockdown, mother nature is enjoying a break from some human pollutants while fossil fuel use, air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions decrease.

In addition to changing environmental impact, the current health crisis has shed a light on the how the world must rethink the way we plan and prepare our cities to better protect populations during times of crisis and keep cities secure for future generations. Three conclusions have come to the forefront.

Teamwork Makes the Dream Work

In the past few months, we have seen the world come together to combat the effects of the coronavirus. From staying at home to sharing new health solutions, people around the globe have worked together to protect themselves and each other. The same mindset can be redirected toward addressing other global challenges, including climate change.

Worldwide lockdowns have thrust humans into a period of innovation, showing how despite obstacles from multiple angles — and anxiety as we face significant consequences — the world can unite and find solutions.

Proactive Resilience Prepares Us

Technologies on display at CES® have shown that resilience is about more than responsiveness and recovery. Preparedness is just as important in making sure countries and municipalities can safely and securely face crises.

The COVID-19 outbreak has exposed the limits of current technologies. Supply chain disruptions, machine learning troubles and more have exposed a need for more responsive and reactive business models. By understanding and analyzing more crisis-related data, and the needs to address the problems they uncover, can help tech innovators develop technologies and leaders design cities that are always prepared to pivot.

Access to Information Should be Universal

Particularly in times of crisis, access to information is vital for underserved and unserved communities. In rural communities where access to health care and resources may be more limited, hearing government recommendations and instructions can help lessen stress and difficulties.

Data-sharing platforms that can extend to these underserved communities can help both transfer data to populations that need information and collect data to inform city officials about any immediate resource needs.

The novel coronavirus has forced us all to adapt in many ways, and it has accelerated innovation in various markets. It’s paving the way for a number of positive changes, showing potential for improvements in the way we live and work and how we can create a more secure world.