Life on Earth is dependent on the ozone layer in the stratosphere, which protects living organisms from the harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun. However, the ozone layer has been compromised by man-made chemicals, primarily chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), which were widely used in the 1980s. This led to the discovery of a hole in the ozone layer over Antarctica, prompting world leaders to sign the Montreal Protocol in 1987 to phase out ozone-depleting chemicals.
Despite efforts to reduce harmful chemicals, challenges remain, with the ozone layer slow to recover. In 2022, a milestone was reached in the recovery process, with ozone-depleting substances in the mid-latitude stratosphere dropping to levels last seen in 1980. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) noted “slow but steady progress” in this regard.
However, a persistent ozone hole continues to appear over Antarctica, causing severe ozone depletion above the polar continents, especially during September and October. The hole’s prolonged presence into December poses risks to plants and animals, making them more vulnerable to harmful UV rays. This is exacerbated by climate change-related events like bushfires, which further deplete the ozone layer.
Experts warn that addressing climate change is crucial to protecting the ozone layer and the environment. Geoengineering proposals that could potentially harm the ozone layer should be approached with caution. It’s essential to take immediate action to reduce carbon emissions and mitigate the impacts of climate change to safeguard both Antarctica and the planet as a whole.
What is causing this ozone hole?
Source: www.sciencefocus.com
