Why is the damage to the ozone layer a cause for concern? What steps are being taken to limit this damage?


The damage to ozone layer is a cause for concern because if the ozone layer becomes damaged, it will get thinner due to which the harmful ultraviolet radiations will penetrate through the layer and reach the surface of earth which when fall on humans will destroy the genetic material of skin cells thus causing their unlimited growth and thus resulting in skin cancer, these ultraviolet radiations will cause cataract in eyes and also immunosuppression i.e. lowering of body’s resistance to diseases. Ozone layer depletion is mainly because of chlorofluorocarbon emitted by refrigerators and air-conditioners. In 1987, UNEP signed an agreement to stop the CFC production at 1986 level, amongst its member countries. Montreal Protocol was signed in September 1987 which states to reduce the consumption and production of ozone depleting substances (CFC’s) in order to reduce their quantity in the environment thus protecting the fragile ozone layer. Also, hydro fluorocarbons are being used instead of CFC’s because HFC’s do not damage the ozone layer as CFC’s do.


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