September 16 is the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer. Every year since 1995, the United Nations commemorates the date in 1987, when representatives from more than 20 countries signed a treaty in Montreal aimed at phasing out CFC (chlorofluorocarbon) and Halon production, two principal culprits in the thinning of the Earth’s protective ozone layer. Located several miles above the Earth in the stratosphere, the ozone layer contains relatively high concentrations of ozone (O³) which shields all life on Earth from dangerous ultraviolet radiation. Below are some personal actions we can take to help the ozone layer.
Ozone-Reducing Actions
Our ‘green’ choices are often ozone-friendly as increases in certain greenhouse gasses like carbon dioxide appear to contribute to the thinning of the ozone layer. Planting trees provide shade and absorb greenhouse gases. When shopping for new appliances, look for ‘ozone-friendly’ or ‘CFC free’ labels. Dispose of old units properly ensuring that CFC refrigerants are removed before it is discarded. Green chemical cleaning products and CFC-free aerosols and manual pump sprayers are now widely available. Even our simplest choices like the kind of slippers and baby products we buy can have a positive impact on the overall quality of the ozone layer. And if you are not already practicing the 3 R’s (reduce, re-use and recycle), here is a great reason to get started.
The Latest Findings about the ‘Hole’
Scientists first discovered a large and rapidly growing hole in the ozone layer over Antarctica in 1985. Much of the impetus behind the Montreal Protocol of 1987 came from these findings. From the mid 1980’s, there have been regular studies of this weak spot in the ozone layer. The most recent assessment, the “Scientific Assessment of Ozone Depletion 2010” report indicates that international efforts to phase out CFCs have been successful. Scientists note that ozone levels across the globe have stabilized with no decreases in ozone noted in the upper atmosphere and specifically over the poles. At the same time, there appears to be no significant increase in ozone to replace that which has been lost.
The success of the Montreal Protocol is a powerful example of what can be accomplished when nations and individuals agree to work collaboratively to protect our shared environment. Today, through widespread international compliance, production and consumption of these ozone-depleting chemicals has been cut by more than 95%. However, the improvement in our ozone layer remains fragile. The ozone layer appears to be detrimentally affected by climate change. The long-term health of our ozone layer may very well depend on the success of our collective efforts to reduce greenhouse gases.
