Ozone Layer protects us from Sun's harmful UV radiations by cutting them off. There is increased concern about the effect of ozone depletion.
The depletion of ozone causes the harmful UV rays to reach the earth and this has resulted in increased incidence of skin cancers in humans. UV rays may also cause genetic mutations in living organisms.
Major air pollutants responsible for the depletion of ozone layer are chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), nitrogen oxides and hydrocarbons.
CFC is used in air conditioners and refrigeration, as cleaning solvents, aerosol propellants, in foam insulation and in certain fire extinguishers. These pollutants react with ozone molecules and disintegrate it.
Depletion of the Ozone Layer could cause :
- Temperature changes and rainfall failures on earth.
- Cancer in human beings.
- Destruction of aquatic life and vegetation.
- Loss of immunity in humans.
Main pollutants responsible for the threat to ozone layer are CFCs which are found in air conditioners and refrigeration etc.
In 1987, The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) succeeded in forging an agreement to freeze CFC production at 1986 level.