Ozone layer acts as sunscreen blocking harmful ultraviolet radiation from reaching the surface of the earth
It has been 40 years since the pioneering research announced the discovery of the ozone hole – a revelation that led to a rapid and successful global attempt to ban chemicals in hair lacquer, deodorants and refrigerators threatening the planet.
OR Discovery of 1985 Scientists at the British Antarctic Survey has revealed a dramatic dilution of the ozone layer over Antarctica, raising immediate global concern about the possible consequences for human health and ecosystems.
The ozone layerlocated in the stratosphere, acts as a sunscreen, blocking harmful ultraviolet radiation from reaching the surface of the earth. Without it, humans and animals could develop increased rates of skin cancer, genetic damage, cataracts and other problems. It also affects the physiology and growth of plants.
‘The discovery of the ozone hole is one of the most important environmental discoveries of the 20th century and proves that strong science, pure communication and international cooperation can face global threats“Dominic Hondson, a temporary science director at the British Antarctic Survey, said in a statement on May 13.
John Sanklin, today Honorary Researcher by British Antarctic Survey, added: “When we published our findings on Nature 40 years ago, we could not imagine the world reaction that would follow“
What caused the ozone hole?
Scientists have found that the responsibility is carried by chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), chemicals widely used in refrigerators, aerosol, solvents and fire extinguishers.
When chlorine and dirt from CFCs arrive in the stratosphere and come into contact with ozone, they destroy its molecules. According to the US Environmental Protection Organization (EPA), ozone can be destroyed faster than is naturally created.
What is the current state of the ozone hole? Recall?
A large and deep hole in the ozone continues to form every spring in Antarctica, reaching the maximum depth and size towards the end of September, according to Sanklin, in an email on May 15 to USA Today. ‘There is a very slow recovery but we will still have holes in the ozone for another 50 years or more“
Indeed, although there are signs of rehabilitation, the process is extremely slow. CFCs have a life of life in the atmosphere that exceeds 50 years, so even without new broadcasts, a complete recovery may not happen before 2070, the British Antarctic Survey reports.
‘Current recovery rate is somewhat slower than expected, so there may be interactions with climate change“, Sancklin noted.
What is Montreal Protocol?
The discovery of the ozone hole led immediately to the conclusion of the Montreal protocol, just two years later – an international agreement that frozen the production and use of substances that destroy ozone at 1986 levels and laid the groundwork for their complete abolition.
What about climate change?
USA Today asked Sankin if there is frustration that there has been no similar progress in reducing greenhouse gas emissions that cause climate change.
‘Very large“, He replied. ‘The Montreal Protocol shows what can be done, but in most other environmental issues (climate, loss of biodiversity, sewage pollution, soil degradation, etc.) there is mainly discussion and small -scale actions“
‘This is mainly because the economic model is incorrect and perverted – assumes that the resources are infinite and that there is no cost to use them“Sancklin explained. ‘This distortion creates all the crises we could avoid“
Source: Skai
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