In the throes of the coronavirus pandemic, family health is understandably often of paramount importance. Economic security is frequently a close second priority. In contrast, environmental concerns may take a back seat. To the extent the environment is considered at all, the unintended consequences of our economic slowdown appear to benefit the environment. As stay-at-home requirements shutter factories and diminish motor vehicle traffic, the air is cleaner than it has been in decades. Similarly, greenhouse gas emissions responsible for climate disruption have markedly diminished even in the absence of a national policy promoting that objective.

In this extraordinary situation, businesses classified as life sustaining or essential to the health and safety of the public operate under difficult conditions. They may work with reduced staff cautioned to observe social distancing, and face difficulties maintaining supply chains and obtaining services of contractors. They may face challenges resulting from the need to alter product mix or dramatically increase production or the number of patients treated.