“The ozone layer is out of sight, but it should never be out of mind”
DR. SARVJEET SINGH AND DR. TAJINDER KOUR
Every year on September 16th, World Ozone Day commemorates the signing of the 1987 Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer. On this day, people all across the world are made aware of the value of the ozone layer, the actions taken to preserve it and the continuous difficulties in preserving its health.
The Importance of the Ozone Layer:Life on Earth is largely protected from dangerous ultraviolet (UV) radiation coming from the sun by the ozone layer, which is found in the stratosphere of the planet Earth. Without this shield, more UV radiation would reach the surface of the Earth, increasing the risk of skin cancer, cataracts and other illnesses. It would also have a negative impact on ecosystems, agriculture, and marine life.
The Montreal Protocol (A Success Story):Among the most successful environmental agreements in history is the Montreal Protocol. It was created in response to scientific data demonstrating the ozone layer’s thinning caused by specific man- made substances, most notably chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). The manufacturing and use of ozone depleting substances (ODS) have been gradually phased out of the protocol through a number of revisions and adjustments. The ozone layer will probably recover and reach 1980 levels by the middle of this century, thanks to the concerted efforts of nations worldwide.
2024 Theme “Fixing the Ozone Layer and Reducing Climate Change”:Every year, a particular theme relevant to current concerns about ozone protection and climate change is observed on World Ozone Day. The subject for 2024 is “Fixing the Ozone Layer and Reducing Climate Change,” which highlights how closely related ozone preservation and global climate initiatives are. A large number of pollutants that deplete the ozone layer are also strong greenhouse gases. In addition to safeguarding the ozone layer, the Montreal Protocol makes a substantial contribution to the effort to combat climate change by gradually phased out particular chemicals.
Current Challenges and the Road Ahead:There are still issues with the Montreal Protocol in spite of its achievements. International collaboration and constant attention are needed to combat new threats such as the illegal trade in chemicals that are prohibited, the need for safe substitutes for hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), and the effects of ozone depletion in a changing environment. New problems, such as the unanticipated release of CFC-11(also known as trichlorofluoromethane, freon-11, or R-11, is a man-made chemical that damages the ozone layer and is a strong greenhouse gas) in recent years, emphasis the necessity of strong enforcement and monitoring systems.
The Role of Individuals and Communities:Community and individual initiatives are just as vital as industrial activities, which are the main focus of the Montreal Protocol. It is possible for everyone to make a difference in this global cause by lowering the usage of products that emit hazardous chemicals, supporting sustainable alternatives, and raising knowledge about the ozone layer.
In addition, to being a day for celebration, World Ozone Day also encourages introspection and dedication. It serves as a reminder of what is possible when people come together from different countries to pursue a shared goal. Let us reconfirm our dedication to protecting the ozone layer and tackling the more significant issues of protecting the environment and climate change as we celebrate our achievements. The health of our planet and future generations depends on it.
Let us commit to maintaining the momentum this World Ozone Day. For the ozone layer to fully regenerate and to slow down climate change, governments, businesses, and individuals must continue to collaborate.
(The writer is working as a Assistant Professor in Higher Education Department, UT of Jammu and Kashmir)