What is ozone depletion?
Ozone depletion occurs when the natural balance between the production and destruction of stratospheric ozone is tipped in favour of destruction. Observations of an antarctic ozone “hole” and atmospheric records indicating seasonal declines in global ozone levels provide strong evidence that global ozone depletion is occurring. Although natural phenomena can cause temporary ozone loss, chlorine and bromine released from synthetic compounds are now accepted as the main cause of this depletion.
Most people are well aware that the World’s Ozone layer is being depleted. Until recent times , aerosol products have contained CFC propellant chemicals, now proven to destroy ozone in the upper atmosphere. Most countries have introduced regulations to ban / minimise use of CFCs. Why does this matter? Holes in the Ozone layer expose us to harmful UV light, linked strongly with skin cancer, cataracts and impaired immune systems. It is also thought to reduce crop yields and have deleterious effects on ocean and amphibious populations worldwide.
