Ozone loss

Abstract

The problem of ozone thinning has been observed since the finding in 1985 over Antarctica of an “ozone hole.” This is an established connection of the disappearance of ozone in cold (polar) regions with airborne CFCs, which are concentrated in the atmosphere by the human use of refrigerants, foam products, and so on. The 1987 Montreal Protocol established strict regulations on the use of CFCs that has lessened this air pollutant in developed countries. Reductions of CFC use have resulted in ozone recovery in the stratosphere, which helps to protect humans from exposure to UV radiation that is harmful to cells in the human body (such as the skin). Other biological life is also affected by ozone loss, including other animals and plant tissues.