Editor’s note: “The Bright Side” is a new series that highlights three pieces of positive news that are taking place across the state, nation and world during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

1. News: Streets of major metropolitan centers are deserted to limit the spread of COVID-19.

On the bright side: Less human activity such as construction, transportation, and industrial machinery have created a reduction in “background seismic activity.” This allows scientists to better study the crust of the Earth, and draw much more clearer conclusions than before. Scientists can now locate and track small earthquakes much more efficiently, and detect subtle volcanic activity as well. The information that is gathered here will be imperative post-quarantine. 

2. News: Healthcare workers serving on the front lines put themselves at risk every day. 

On the bright side: Every day at 8 p.m., the people of Paris, France applaud their healthcare workers. But yesterday, the bell of Notre Dame also rang, not only for the healthcare works, but also to commemorate the one year anniversary of when the iconic building almost burnt entirely down. The bell has rung only once since its reconstruction, and offers a symbol of hope, promise, and the capacity to overcome hardship, for the entire world. 

3. News: Social distancing has limited our ability to interact with friends and build human connections

On the bright side: Animal shelters across the nation have reported a surge of adoptions in the past few months due to a shelter-in-place effect. With many Americans stuck at home, pets can provide companionship, a source of entertainment for children, as well as a solution to social distancing. More time at home has also allowed people to spend more time with the pets they already have, strengthening the bond between them.