The ozone layer is a thin part of the Earth’s atmosphere which absorbs a majority of the sun’s harmful ultraviolet light, and thus prevents the harmful sun rays from reaching Earth’s surface. This helps prevent damage to crops, plants, and micro-organisms, and significantly reduces the risk of skin cancer and eye cataracts. However, the ozone layer has been depleting for a long time and this can have harmful effects upon Earth.
The main reason for ozone layer depletion is due to the destruction of ozone molecules from Chlorine and Bromine containing chemicals, which are derived from human produced compounds. Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and Hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) which are widely used by humans, are a key source of these harmful chemicals that are negatively affecting the ozone layer and are also responsible for producing a powerful greenhouse gas effect, adding to the global warming issues. These man-made chemicals derived for industrial purposes have been impacting the Earth negatively for over a 100 years. Since 1979, ozone layers have depleted 4-6% per decade in mid-latitudes and between 10-12% per decade in higher southern latitudes. It has also been recorded that since 1981, the average temperature has been increasing 0.32 degrees Fahrenheit per decade.
As the ozone layer continues to deplete, affecting the earth’s climate, it is important that necessary steps are taken before the human race faces irreversible damage. There are many simple ways that we can do to help slow down the problem of ozone layer depletion. We can minimize the usage of cars, maintain air conditioners in our homes, and use eco-friendly cleaning products. Minimizing the usage of cars and vehicles will lead to less pollution which will help less CFCs and HCFCs be released. Similarly for air conditioners, if they are maintained and kept in shape, this will prevent the spread of CFCs and HCFCs that come from when an air conditioner is broken. Lastly, eco-friendly cleaning products are a great and simple way to help towards ozone depletion. Many cleaning products contain harmful chemicals which are then released in the atmosphere, natural and ecologically friendly cleaning products are an easy way to fix this. Working towards preventing depletion of the ozone layer will consequently help climate change. If society picks up simple ways to help the environment, many of Earth’s problems can be effectively handled. Overall, man made chemicals through industrialization have severely impacted the world and are continuing to do so, but the local population can work to contribute in a simple yet efficient manner.
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