On the occasion of World Ozone Day (16 September), the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) released the 2nd Edition of the WMO Ozone and UV Bulletin. This bulletin marks a significant moment in global efforts to protect the ozone layer, coinciding with the celebration of the Montreal Protocol, a landmark environmental agreement. The theme for this year is “Montreal Protocol: Advancing Climate Actions”, highlighting the pact’s role in combating climate change.
Key Findings from the Bulletin
Ozone Layer Recovery: The ozone layer is slowly recovering, with the decline of ozone-depleting substances (ODS). Full recovery is expected by:
2066 over Antarctica
2045 over the Arctic
2040 for the rest of the world
Kigali Amendment Impact: The Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol could reduce global warming by 0.5°C by 2100.
Understanding the Ozone Layer
The ozone layer is found in the stratosphere, at a height of 15-30 km, and is crucial in absorbing harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun. It is naturally produced through the interaction of UV light with molecular oxygen (O2).
Ozone Depletion: Caused by chemicals like Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and Halons, depletion is most severe over Antarctica, accelerated by stratospheric clouds.
Ozone Hole: This refers to areas where the ozone layer is significantly thinned, allowing more UV radiation to reach Earth. This has serious consequences for:
Human health: Increased skin cancer risks.
Plant life: Disruption in growth and development.
Marine ecosystems: Reduced survival of phytoplankton, which form the base of the ocean’s food chain.
Global and Indian Initiatives
Global:
Vienna Convention (1985) and Montreal Protocol (1987): These agreements regulate the production and consumption of ODS.
Kigali Amendment (2016): A decision to phase down the use of Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), potent greenhouse gases, to mitigate climate change.
India:
Cooling Action Plan (2019): A comprehensive strategy to manage cooling demand, refrigerant use, and improve energy efficiency.
India has successfully phased out CFCs, Carbon Tetrachloride, Halons, Methyl Bromide, and Methyl Chloroform.
Conclusion
The WMO’s latest bulletin highlights the positive progress in ozone layer recovery while emphasizing the need for continued global action. Through initiatives like the Montreal Protocol and its Kigali Amendment, we can protect the ozone layer and advance global climate goals.
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