The International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer is observed on 16 September every year. The day was created by the United Nations in 1994 to raise awareness of the value of protecting the layer that shields all life on the Earth from the harmful ultraviolet radiations that are emitted by the sun.
The theme for International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer 2022
This year the theme announced by the UN Environment Programme for International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer 2022 is ‘Global Cooperation Protecting Life on Earth.’ The theme means that more people will be able to access vital cooling technology without further warming the planet. The Montreal Protocol’s influence is recognized with this theme and brings to notice the ‘need to act in collaboration, partnerships and develop global cooperation to address climate challenges and protect life on earth for future generations.
History of International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer 2022
Scientists first noticed a hole in the ozone layer in the late 1970s, which they later determined to be the result of ozone-depleting gases. These gases are used in various cooling technologies like air conditioning and refrigeration.
16 September was designated as the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer by the UN General Assembly in December 1994. Since then the day has been observed with a focus on creating awareness of the depleting condition of the Ozone layer. The world celebrated the first International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer on 16 September 1995.
Also see: Ozone: Formation and depletion in the stratosphere, Practice Problems
Significance of International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer 2022
The International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer aims to create awareness about the importance and need of the Ozone layer which is the single protection on Earth against UV rays coming out from the sun. The UN Environment Programme aims to bring alertness about the importance of getting rid of the substances that damage the ozone layer.
Activities Students Can Involve in During Ozone Day
- Slogan Writing Competition
- Essay Writing Competition
- Poster Making
- Report Writing
- Participating in plays related to ozone layer depletion
Steps to Control Ozone Layer Depletion
- Use your freezers and air conditioners responsibly
- Limit driving
- Make sure your cleaning products are eco-friendly
- Avoid using pesticides
- Try practicing methods that help reduce air pollution such as biking, walking, carpooling
- Talk about World Ozone Day & make people aware of how this day was started.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ozone Layer
1. What do we mean by Ozone layer depletion?
Ozone layer depletion is the thinning of the ozone layer present in the upper atmosphere. This action usually happens when the chlorine and bromine atoms in the atmosphere come in contact with ozone and destroy the ozone molecules.
2. What are the effects of ozone layer depletion on our human health?
The ozone layer helps in protecting the harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun. Depletion of the ozone layer exposes humans to harmful ultraviolet rays causing skin diseases, cataracts, cancer, impaired immune system, etc.
3. What are the effects of ozone layer depletion on the environment?
The ozone layer acts as a natural filter, absorbing most of the sun's ultraviolet rays. Ozone depletion leads to an increase in UV rays that reach the earth's surface, disrupting biological processes and damaging several materials.
4. What will happen if the ozone layer keeps depleting?
Depletion of the ozone layer will lead to higher UVB levels, causing increased skin cancers and cataracts and potential damage to some marine organisms and plants.
5. What causes the ozone layer to deplete the most?
Ozone is depleted by many different chemicals; most prominently, the chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) are responsible for causing the Antarctic ozone hole.
Conclusion
For more detailed information on the ozone layer, ozone layer depletion, causes, effects, and solutions to ozone layer depletion, keep visiting our important concept pages for further reference.
