With the Monsoon rains, tornadoes, wildfires, receding water bodies, unexpected rainfalls, late winter and other weather changes, it’s time to take the earth more seriously than ever before. Knowing your role in helping to preserve the Ozone layer should be your next step.
Every year since December 19, 2000, September 16 has been a day set aside by the United Nations General Assembly as the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer.
This year, everyone is been urged to “keep cool and carry on” by celebrating the work so far, continuing to protect the ozone layer and accelerating action to take an even bigger bite out of climate change.
Background to the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer:
The Montreal Protocol came into being over 30 years ago in response to the revelation that chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and other ozone-depleting substances – used in aerosols, cooling and refrigeration systems, and many other items – were tearing a hole in the ozone layer and allowing dangerous ultraviolet radiation to flood through.
Under the Protocol, nations commit to slashing the production and use of these substances, which are also greenhouse gases and so major contributors to global warming. As a result, the ozone layer is now healing and will return to 1980 levels by mid-century. Up to two million cases of skin cancer may be prevented each year by 2030, and the planet is cooler than it would otherwise have been.
Today the Montreal Protocol stands as an example of what we can achieve through intelligence, leadership and innovation. It is a call for everyone to reflect on and celebrate how we came together to fix the hole in the sky.
How can I fix the hole in the sky, you may ask?
Avoid the consumption of gases dangerous to the ozone layer:
Due to their content or manufacturing process. Some of the most dangerous gases are CFCs (chlorofluorocarbons), halogenated hydrocarbon, methyl bromide and nitrous oxide. Speak to the government representatives in your community to put policies in place that will ensure that big companies stop the use of these poisonous materials.
Minimize the use of cars:
The best transport options in the urban areas are bicycles or walking. If you use a car to a destination, try to carpool with others to decrease the use of cars in order to pollute less and save our environment.
Do not use cleaning products that are harmful:
Many cleaning products contain solvents and substances that are corrosive, but you can replace these dangerous substances with non-toxic products such as vinegar or bicarbonate.
Buy local products:
This way, you not only get fresh products but you avoid consuming food that has travelled long distances. The more the distance travelled, the more nitrous oxide is produced due to the medium used to transport that product.
Finally, by properly using, servicing and disposing of refrigerators, air conditioners and other equipment responsibly, we can minimize energy use and emissions, and save money.
Together, with the little efforts here and there. We can all fix that hole in the sky.
Do you have any question or comment? Do share with us in the comment section.