Protect the ozone layer and ourselves as well

THE International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer, which falls on 16 September, is marked in various countries worldwide every year with serious awareness of harmful UV radiation and the important role of the ozone layer.

 

All year round, scientists and experts warn the global people of the situation of the ozone layer around the world. They speak out reduction of using ozone-depleting substances and other chemi­cals, such as hydrofluorocarbons (greenhouse gases) as much as possible. The depleted part of the ozone layer must be recovered in all means through concerted efforts of the global people to ensure the safety of their lives and existence.

 

Forty years ago, nations came together under the Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer and agreed to take appropriate measures to protect people and the plan­et from harmful UV radiation pouring through a potentially damaged ozone layer. Moreo­ver, the Montreal Protocol was adopted, and chlorofluorocar­bons – man-made chemicals used in refrigeration, aerosol sprays and foam production – started being phased out, setting the ozone layer on the road to recovery.

 

Chlorofluorocarbons, halons, carbon tetrachloride, methyl chloroform, and simi­lar substances must be con­trolled. Compliance with in­ternational agreements such as the Montreal Protocol is essential, as ozone-depleting substances are already being phased out step by step, and it is important to continue adhering to these measures. In refrigerators, aircraft, and other equipment, substitutes that do not harm the ozone layer should be used.

 

Planting trees does not di­rectly restore the ozone layer, but since trees absorb CO₂ and help reduce global warming, they play an important role in combating climate change. As rising global temperatures are also linked to chemical changes affecting the ozone layer, tree planting, while not a direct solution, can still provide supportive benefits.

 

The theme for the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer in 2025 is “From Science to Global Action”. This theme highlights how scientific discovery and data are translated into tangible global actions, such as international treaties like the Montreal Protocol, to protect the ozone layer and, consequently, life on Earth.

 

That is why every individual is responsible for their actions, whether or not they harm the ozone layer. In fact, the ozone layer is a blessing for the world. Everyone must seek the best ways to prevent its depletion and protect all living and non-living things on Earth from the threat of UV radiation. By protecting the ozone layer, they are ultimately protecting themselves.