Ozone Layer Depletion: Causes and Protective Solutions

 

Ozone layer depletion is the thinning of the earth's ozone layer gradually in the upper atmosphere due to the chemical compounds releasing in the atmosphere containing gaseous chlorine or bromine from human activities or industries. This ozone layer protects many lives on the earth and filters out harmful UV radiation coming from the sun. Ozone layer depletion is not just a matter of concern on the environment but it also increases the health complications such as eye cataracts, suppression of the immune system, and even skin cancer.

The ozone-depleting substances containing chlorine include carbon tetrachloride, chlorofluorocarbon, methyl chloroform, and hydrochlorofluorocarbons. While, the ozone-depleting substances containing bromine include, methyl bromide, halons, and hydro bromofluorocarbons. 

What are the causes of Ozone Layer Depletion?

In the past few years, ozone layer depletion has become a major concern due to the certain factors. The main factors responsible for ozone layer depletion are as follows:

l  Chlorofluorocarbons: CFCs or Chlorofluorocarbons are the main reason for ozone layer depletion that are released by spray aerosols, solvents, air-conditioners, refrigerators, etc. The Chlorofluorocarbons molecules in the stratosphere are eradicated by the ultraviolet radiations. This radiation release chlorine atoms, react with the ozone layer and cause depletion.

l  Nitrogenous Compounds: The nitrogenous compounds are also the reason behind the depletion of the ozone layer such as NO, NO2, and N2O.

l  Natural Elements: The ozone layer depletion is also caused due to some natural processes such as stratospheric winds and sunspots. Research has shown that volcanic eruptions are also the factor responsible for ozone layer depletion.

What Are The Solutions To Ozone Layer Depletion?

Following are some solutions that are helpful in preventing this issue at a global level:

l  Reduce the Use of Vehicles: Vehicles release a huge amount of greenhouse gases that cause ozone depletion as well as global warming. That is the reason the usage of vehicles should be reduced as much as possible.

l  Avoid Using Pesticides: It is better to deploy natural methods to get rid of insects and pests instead of using chemicals. Remove the weeds manually or remove the pests through eco-friendly chemicals.

l  Prohibit Using Nitrous Oxide: Government should prohibit the usage of nitrous oxide that adversely affects the ozone layer. It is important to promote awareness among people about the harmful effects of nitrous oxide and associated gas to reduce the effects.

l  Use Environment-Friendly Cleaning Products:Many cleaning products have bromine and chlorine releasing chemicals that affect the atmosphere causing ozone layer depletion. Thus, it is advised to make use of environment-friendly cleaning products to save the environment.

To bring awareness about this topic in society, many organizations are working positively. Ogmios Foundation is one amongst all. This is a team of entrepreneurs who do not just create awareness but want to realize changes and build a better relationship with our planet.

To know more details, please visit https://ogmios.nl/en