More about the Ozone Layer

Ozone layer is a protective layer  present in the stratosphere. It is responsible for protecting the Earth’s surface from harmful ultraviolet radiations coming from the sun. 

The  ozone layer has become much thinner than before. The reason for this is excessive use of chemicals such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFC). It contains elements such as fluorine, carbon and chlorine. They are mainly found in plastics and refrigerants. 

Without the ozone layer, it would weaken our immune system. We may develop skin diseases, cataracts, etc. The UV light from the sun may damage DNA molecules in plants and animals. It also causes deadly skin cancer, melanoma and premature aging. 

In the 1970s, scientists discovered that the ozone layer was being depleted. In 1987, the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone layer came into effect. It limits the production and import of all the major ozone depleting substances.  The World Meteorological Organisation and the United Nations Environment Programme review the state of the ozone layer every 4 years. The ozone layer depletion has reduced drastically compared to the 1980s. 

Works Cited

Australian Government (2021). The ozone layer - DCCEEW. [online] Dcceew.gov.au. Available at: https://www.dcceew.gov.au/environment/protection/ozone/ozone-science/ozone-layer.

BYJU'S (2019). Ozone Layer Depletion - Cause, Effects, and Solutions. [online] BYJUS. Available at: https://byjus.com/biology/ozone-layer-depletion/.

National Geographic (2022). Ozone Layer. [online] education.nationalgeographic.org. Available at: https://education.nationalgeographic.org/resource/ozone-layer/.