DEPLETION OF THE OZONE LAYER AND ITS EFFECTS ON MANKIND

By Fiyin-Shalom

Have you ever imagined how hot and harmful the earth would be if there was a direct absorption of the ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun? The earth probably wouldn’t be safe for humans to dwell in. The effect of the ultraviolet rays from the sun is reduced due to the presence of a gas known as “OZONE”.

Ozone is a colorless gas found in the stratosphere of our upper atmosphere. The layer of the ozone gas is what protects us from the harmful UV radiation from the sun. This layer is 30 to 50 kilometers above the earth although its thickness varies seasonally and geographically.

Unfortunately, there has been a gradual reduction in the amount of ozone gas in the atmosphere. According to the research work by Mario Molina and Sherwood Rowland in 1974, the ozone layer has been threatened by chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) gases which at the time were commonly used in aerosol sprays and as coolants in many refrigerators.

Aside from the chlorofluorocarbon gases, substances such as nitrogen compounds, carbon tetrachloride, methyl chloroform and hydrofluorocarbons present in refrigerators, air conditioners, adhesives, fire extinguishers, aerosols, solvents are responsible for the Ozone’s depletion in the atmosphere.

Moreover, unregulated rocket launches result in much depletion of the Ozone layer than the CFCs do and if not controlled might lead to a huge loss of the ozone layer by the year 2050.

Therefore, the depletion of the ozone layer has in no doubt increased the number of ultraviolet rays from the sun that reaches the earth's surface. Studies demonstrate that an increase in the UV rays causes a higher risk of skin cancer, which plays a major role in malignant melanoma development, sunburns, quick aging, eye cataracts, blindness and weakened Immune system. Direct exposure to ultraviolet radiation also leads to skin and eye cancer in animals. Plants also bear the harmful effect of the UV rays by experiencing minimal growth, short leaves, and reduction in their productivity.

In conclusion, the depletion of the ozone layer can be halted if individuals make conscious efforts to minimize the use of ozone-depleting substances. These substances can be substituted with eco-friendly products which will not only prevent depletion of the ozone layer but also protect the environment.