September 16 is celebrated internationally as Ozone Layer Protection Day. This date, established by the UN in 1994, is a reminder of humanity's great responsibility to nature.
From scientific discovery to global movement
The ozone layer is an invisible, but very important "protective shield" located in the upper layers of the Earth's atmosphere. It protects people and all living beings from the harmful effects of ultraviolet rays. If it weren't for this natural shield, there would have been a sharp increase in skin cancer and eye diseases, disruption of agriculture and entire ecosystems.
In the 1980s, scientists proved that the ozone layer is weakening and disappearing under the influence of various chemicals. This situation paved the way for global ecological cooperation and solidarity for the first time in human history.
In 1985, 28 countries signed the Vienna Convention, reaching an agreement on the preservation of the ozone layer. Two years later, the Montreal Protocol was adopted. It is noted as the most effective and successful international agreement in the history of mankind. The protocol stipulated the obligation to gradually eliminate chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and similar substances used in refrigerators and air conditioners, various aerosols.
The Montreal Protocol is a great achievement
Through this international treaty, more than a hundred chemical substances were brought under control. They were prohibited in stages, depending on their ozone-depleting potential. To date, many items have been disposed of before the deadline. This process was successfully implemented in both developed and developing countries.
New phase - Kigali Transformations
In 2016, a new amendment to the protocol was made in Kigali, the capital of Rwanda. This time, we were talking about hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), which do not directly destroy the ozone layer, but have a serious impact on climate change. It was agreed that they will also be gradually reduced.
According to scientists, if the established rules are strictly followed, the ozone layer may be fully restored by the 2050s. This shows that humanity can achieve great results if it acts in unity in the name of nature.
What can we do?
The elimination of old refrigerators and air conditioners in accordance with the rules, the use of environmentally friendly products, and the transformation of ecological habits into a way of life should be the responsibility of every person.
Although the ozone layer is invisible to our eyes, it is of incomparable importance for our life. Its protection is the personal responsibility not only of scientists or states, but of every person.
Humanity's experience in this direction tells us one thing: no one has the right to delay the preservation of nature.
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