Weather & Radar
Home / Editor's Pick /

World Ozone Day: Celebrating a global effort

13:00
16 September 2023

World Ozone Day
Celebrating a global effort

environment pollution ozone delhi

Today we celebrate not only the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer, but the greatest combined success for the planet in history.

Adopted in 1987, the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer remains the only treaty to have been ratified by every country on the planet.

All 198 states working together to rid the world of ozone-depleting substances such as chlorofluorocarbons.

ozone

Ozone is a gas with two sides. At ground level, it is considered a pollutant and forms the main component of smog, but in the atmosphere, it is our best protection against harmful UV radiation emitted by the Sun.

In the 1970s, scientists realised that humanity was causing a hole in the ozone layer through the use of aerosols and other ozone-depleting gases.

This hole could cause significant damage, including increases in skin cancer, cataracts, and damaged ecosystems.

Ozone layer protectionThe ozone layer absorbs UV-C light, the most harmful form. UV-B light is mostly absorbed but residual rays result in suntans and possible skin damage.

Without the treaty in place, it was estimated that ozone depletion would be ten times worse by 2050 than what has been achieved.

Compared to levels in 1990, 98% of ozone-depleting substances have been removed from the atmosphere and greenhouse gases have been reduced by 11 gigatons a year.

So today is a mark of celebration and a symbol of what the world can achieve when working in harmony since the signing of the Montreal Protocol 36 years ago.

Ryan Hathaway
15:00
24 September 2023
Damp leaves on railway line

Fact or friction?

Issues with leaves on the railway lines

11:00
24 September 2023
Temperature warning

Climate report warns

London not prepared for future heatwaves

07:00
24 September 2023
teaser

As Nigel arrives

Hurricanes in the UK and Ireland?

All articles
Weather & Radar
Web | App
facebooktwitterContact us
Privacy policy | Legal info