International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layeris observed on 16th September every year. To create awareness among people about the depletion of Ozone Layer and look for possible solutions to preserve it. The Montreal Protocol was signed on 16thSeptember, 1987 on substances that deplete the Ozone Layer and marks the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer. The aim of the Montreal Protocol is to protect the ozone layer by taking measures to control total global production and consumption of substances supposed to be responsible for ozone layer depletion. On this day Educators teach their students about the benefits of Ozone layer and special events and activities are organized to spread awareness.
Causes of Ozone Depletion
Main cause of depletion of Ozone layer is human activity mainly human-made chemicals that contain chlorine or bromine. These chemicals are known as Ozone - Depleting Substances(ODS). The chief ozone depleting substances include chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), carbon tetrachloride, hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) and methyl chloroform. Halons, sometimes known as brominates fluorocarbons, also contribute mightily to ozone depletion.
Ozone Depleting Substances have been used as:
- refrigerants in commercial, home and vehicle air conditioners and refrigerators
- foam blowing agents
- components in electrical equipment
- industrial solvents
- solvents for cleaning (including dry cleaning)
- aerosol spray propellants
- fumigants.
Effects of Ozone depletion
Ozone is responsible for shielding the UV rays from sun; its depletion may cause severe health hazards. Ozone depletion also impacts the environment adversely by altering the life cycles of plants and disrupting the food chain. Depletion of ozone layer may result in change in wind pattern, leading global warming hence resulting in climatic changes all over the world.
Harmful effects of UV Rays
- It causes skin cancer.
- UV rays cause skin burn.
- Over-exposure to UV radiation affects or damages immune system.
- Prolonged exposure to UV rays damages the tissues of eyes and can cause a 'burning' of the eye surface known as 'snow blindness'.
- UV rays also speeds up the aging of skin.
- Several pigments like colour used for colouring food, fabric, plastic, paint, ink, dyes etc. absorb UV and change colour.
Preventive measures to save our planet Earth
- Use of products which has Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) such as hair sprays fresheners, cosmetics and aerosol in plastic containers should be avoided.
- Promote activities such as tree planting and backyard gardening.
- Use Environmental-friendly fertilizers.
- Prevent excessive smoke emission from your vehicle which causes air pollution. Save on gasoline and crude oil by regular maintenance.
- Do not burn plastics and rubber tyres.
The controlled use of ozone depleting substances and the related reductions have not only helped protect the ozone layer for this and future generations, but have also contributed significantly to global efforts to address climate change; furthermore, it has protected human health and ecosystems by limiting the harmful ultraviolet radiation from reaching the earth. On this day people from all over the world are expected to join the virtual talks and seminars etc. World Ozone Day is observed on 16th September 2020 to spread awareness about the harmful effects of Ozone depletion and ways to find out preventive measures on Ozone Depletion.
Director
Department of Environment