ABSTRACT
This contribution reflects on the inequalities in health and access to healthcare exposed by the COVID-19 pandemic. It suggests that such inequalities have to be understood in the wider context of imbalances in the earth system as studied in earth system science. The COVID-19 pandemic is one manifestation of such imbalances, alongside climate change, the loss of biodiversity and the release of toxic chemicals. Inequalities in the health system are related to inequalities in root causes (by consumer classes) of such imbalances in the earth system. Put simply, those who contributed least to the causes suffer most under the consequences. As suggested by the South African Council of Churches, inequality (and the perceived need to maintain own interests) also is the reason why many people thwart efforts to address climate change. This occurrence suggests that solidarity with the victims of the pandemic and of climate change will face severe tests in years to come.
