Ozone Depletion

Ozone Depletion is one of the major environmental concerns threatening planet Earth. Ozone is one of the gases found in the atmosphere of earth. The presence of ozone in the tropospheric layer of the atmosphere is harmful for life forms. But, stratospheric ozone serves a significant purpose in the existence of life on earth. The ozone layer is responsible for the protection of the surface of the earth from the incoming ultraviolet rays of the sun. It acts as a shield stopping the harmful effects of these rays.

The depletion of the ozone layer is one of the gravest dangers faced by earth. First notified in 1974, the decrease in the concentration of ozone in the stratosphere is one of the most researched topics among scientists. The lowering levels of ozone in the stratosphere is thought to be a result of the increasing concentration of an artificial compound in the earth's atmosphere. This compound known as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) are used in aerosols, fire-fighting substances, refrigerators, fumigants and cleaning solvents. Chlorine, forming one of the basic ingredients of these compounds, affect the ozone present in stratosphere.

The various environmental effects of ozone depletion are capable of causing permanent damage to the earth. Exposure to the ultraviolet rays can result in skin and eye cancer and cataracts. The harmful effects of ultraviolet rays on plants stunt their growth and development thus decreasing the rate of production. The basic producer in the marine food chain is the phytoplankton. Increased penetration of ultraviolet rays are capable of harming these, thus destroying marine eco-system. Even artificial objects like buildings and man-made structures do not remain unaffected by the direct rays of sun.

Various steps have been taken by countries of the world in order to put a stop to this global threat. The first initiative was taken with the implementation of the Montreal Protocol in 1989. Ozone protection legislations have been passed in countries like Australia. The use of CFCs has been banned, except for certain essential utilizations. The Commonwealth Ozone Protection Act also implements the ban on the extensive use of chlorofluorocarbon products. General awareness combined with the implementation of the rules and regulations is necessary to stop ozone depletion.