Earth's ozone depletion: Its key causes and subsequent measures undertaken

The Earth's ozone layer, a natural shield against damaging ultraviolet rays, has been under threat for several decades. The primary cause of this depletion is the use of chemicals called chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs).

Back in 1987, 24 countries signed the Montreal Protocol, an agreement to reduce CFC production worldwide. Since then, CFC production has been banned in most countries, and its use began to decline after peaking in 2000. However, concerns remain about the impact of new substances on the ozone layer.

The United Nations Ozone Action Programme and the Montreal Protocol are two relevant organizations to contact regarding the issue of new substances and the ozone layer. These organizations work globally on monitoring, reporting, and implementing measures that have successfully reduced ozone-depleting gases and supported sustainable alternatives.

One such substance is halon-1202, the presence of which in the atmosphere has increased five-fold since the late 1970s. Other new chemicals, such as n-propyl bromide, are not controlled by the Montreal Protocol, raising concerns among environmental groups.

The problem of ozone depletion is most acute over Antarctica, where an area larger than two-and-a-half times Europe was affected in 2004. Australia, North America, and Europe are also at great risk.

Beatrice Olivastri, CEO of Friends of the Earth Canada, agrees that early recovery of the ozone layer is possible with an aggressive commitment and the need for governments to stop rolling back legislation for a total ban on these chemicals. She emphasizes the importance of strong legislation and action to protect the ozone layer from the harmful effects of new substances.

Mario Molina, credited with discovering the problem of ozone depletion from CFCs, believes that if enough new substances are manufactured and emitted, the recovery of the ozone layer will be significantly delayed. He suggests that governments need to be vigilant and not become complacent about the potential harm of new substances to the ozone layer.

According to the United Nations Environment Programme, the ozone layer should be able to repair itself by 2050 as long as CFC production trails off as planned. However, the rise of new harmful substances threatens this optimistic outlook.

The significant actors engaged in reducing illegal CFC production and protecting the ozone layer include the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the World Bank providing financial support, and the parties to the Montreal Protocol and its Kigali Amendment.

For those interested in learning more about the issue of new substances and the ozone layer, and taking action to protect it, the contacts provided by these organizations can be a valuable resource. Friends of the Earth Canada is also a contact for information and advocacy related to the ozone layer and the use of new substances.

In conclusion, the ozone layer's recovery is a global effort that requires vigilance and action. The rise of new harmful substances underscores the need for continued monitoring, strong legislation, and international cooperation to ensure the early recovery of the ozone layer and the protection of our planet.