Ozone Layer Depletion ~ Environmental Issues

Ozone layer depletion is one of the top environmental issues affecting the world today.

What Is Ozone Layer Depletion

The ozone layer is a naturally-forming gas that surrounds the planet and protects it from the sun’s radiation, also known as UV rays. Ozone depletion refers to an ozone hole that has been caused by human activities.

What Causes Ozone Depletion / Causes Of Ozone Depletion

The release of chlorofluorocarbons and hydrofluorocarbons (CFCs and HCFCs) are depleting the ozone layer. These are primarily found in refrigerants, insulating foams, and solvents released during manufacturing processes. Pesticides, chemicals used in fire extinguishers, and industrial solvents also deplete the ozone layer.

Facts About Ozone Layer Depletion

Here are facts about the ozone layer and its depletions:
•The ozone layer can recover, potentially by 2050, if the world’s industrial countries follow recommendations set forth in the Montreal Protocol. The Montreal Protocol, which targeted 95 chemicals, was introduced in 1987, and is now signed by more than 190 countries.
•CFCs (which harm the ozone layer) can be measured from aircraft, satellites, and balloons.
•A single damaging chlorine can destroy 100,000 ozone molecules.
•Some manmade chemicals can take 20-120 years to break down, and while they’re breaking down, they’re breaking up ozone molecules that are needed to protect the Earth.
•There is no actual “ozone hole.” This term was coined in the 1980s to refer to the diminishing ozone layer.

Read more about other top environmental issues: climate change and global warming, acid rain, deforestation, and endangered species.