By now, we are familiar with the CFCs and their damaging effects to the ozone layer. The damage was so extensive that a “hole” had developed over Antarctica during the 1980s and early 1990s.
In 1987, the Montreal Protocol was introduced with the aim of banning the production of all ozone depleting substances. Since then, the ozone layer has started to mend, and this is more evident over Antarctica.
However, chemicals present in CFCs have a rather long lifespan. Hence, the dissipation of the already existing CFCs in the atmosphere may take more time – probably several decades or even more. Regardless, the ozone layer is “healing”, albeit at a very slow pace.
Further Reading:
- Ozone Layer Depletion – Cause and Effects
- The Greenhouse Effect – Definition, Causes and Repurcussions
Frequently Asked Questions on Ozone Layer Healing
Which protocol/ agreement aims to protect the stratospheric ozone layer?
Montreal Protocol (1987) was the protocol which aimed to protect the earth’s stratospheric ozone layer.
Is the ozone hole closing?
Due to the Montreal Protocol, CFC emissions have drastically decreased. As a result, the ozone holes created at the poles of the earth will start closing, though it might take quite a long time – at least several decades.
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