When chlorofluorocarbons (CFC) drift upwards towards the stratosphere, they come in contact with the Ozone layer. This leads to a chemical reaction where the CFC molecules are broken up by ultraviolet radiation, releasing chlorine atoms, which are able to destroy ozone molecules.

The destruction of the ozone layer leads to increased chances of skin cancer among humans and reduced plant health which is especially true for agricultural crops.

For more relevant articles refer to the links given below:

• UPSC Environment and Ecology Questions
• International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)
• UPSC Environment and Ecology