Ozone Layer: Depletion, Effects and Solution

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The ozone layer is a region of the Earth stratosphere that absorbs most of the sun's ultraviolet radiation. It contains high concentrations of ozone in relation to other parts of the atmosphere, although still small in relation to other gases in the stratosphere. The layer shields the entire earth from much of the harmful ultraviolet radiation that comes from the sun which is mainly found in the lower portion of the stratosphere, from approximately 20_30 kilometres above the earth. From the 1970s the depletion of the ozone layer started to capture the attention of the scientists, environmentalists, and the world community at large. There had been a lot of research on this topic over these years to find out all the possible causes that lead to this problem and the effects, as continuous research to find out possible solutions to this problem.

DEPLETION

Ozone Layer depletion is one of the most serious problems faced by planet earth. It is also one of the prime reasons that lead to global warming. Ozone is a colourless gas which is found in the stratosphere of our upper atmosphere. The Layer of Ozone gas is what protects us from the harmful ultraviolet radiations of the sun. The ozone layer absorbs these harmful radiations and thus, prevents these rays from entering the earth's atmosphere .
Ultraviolet radiations are high energy electromagnetic waves emitted by the sun, which if enters the earth's atmosphere can lead to various environmental issues including global warming. Ozone is a highly reactive molecule that contains three oxygen atoms which are constantly being formed and broken down in the high atmosphere.source

Ozone depletion implies deterioration of this ozone layer or shield in the stratosphere, thereby exposing the earth to the harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun. Ozone depletion occurs due to the release of pollution containing the chemicals ( free radical catalysts) including chlorine, bromine, nitric acid, nitrous oxide and hydroxyl. Such pollution may include Chlorofluorocarbons( CFCs) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), mostly found in vehicular emissions, by products of industrial processes, aerosols and refrigerants. These substances remain stable in the lower atmospheric region, but as they reach the stratosphere, they get exposed to the ultra violet rays. This leads to their breakdown and releasing of free chlorine atoms which reacts with the ozone gas, thus leading to the depletion of the ozone layer. The important of Ozone Layer cannot be overemphasis. It is this layer of the Earth stratosphere that shields the earth from the harmful effect of the ultraviolet radiations from the sun. Ozone is so effective at absorbing the sun's ultraviolet radiation. It prevents about 90_97% of the ultraviolet radiation from reaching the surface of the earth.

EFFECTS

Hazard of depletion of the ozone layer to the environment are listed as: the ultraviolet radiation of the sun affects plants in their ability to grow and develop correctly, thereby reducing their productivity; it also affect the fertility of animals, as well as the viability of their offspring; Ultraviolet radiation causes skin cancer, sun burn, premature aging, cataract and weakening of the immune system in humans; reduction in phytoplankton production. Phytoplankton forms the foundation of aquatic food web. Also , wood, plastic, rubber, fabrics and many construction materials are degraded by ultraviolet radiation.

SOLUTION

Ozone Layer depletion can be prevented by taken several measures like: changing the light bulbs at home to compact fluorescent light bulb to conserve energy use. This helps to reduce global warming , turn off and unplug all appliances and electronics, like computer, when not in use , take public transport, walk or cycle instead of driving your private car always, invest in a car that emits lesser chemicals, support environmental organizations and spread the word about the causes and effects of ozone depletion to people around you, Also , factories should improve the containment of chemicals to prevent leaks, evaporation and emissions unintended by products. Globally, there have been treaties signed such as the montreal protocol to phase out the use of substances that contribute to ozone depletion.