By Ambreen Ali
Today, the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer is being observed. Before celebrating any day, it is important to understand why we celebrate it. We observe Ozone Layer Day every year on September 16 to ensure a clean and healthy future. The purpose of celebrating this day is to promote awareness, responsibility, and practical actions for a clean and healthy future for all living beings.
Many of us are unaware, as only a few people know what the ozone layer actually is. Ozone is the layer around the sun that not only prevents harmful ultraviolet B (UVB) rays from reaching the Earth but also eliminates their damaging effects. Ozone is a colorless, invisible gas made up of three oxygen atoms and is naturally present in the atmosphere. It wouldn’t be wrong to call it the Earth’s protective shield. It is a thin, delicate layer of gas located several kilometers above our heads, wrapping around our planet. This protective layer is scientifically known as the “ozone layer.” It appears light blue and is crucial for life on Earth.
This gaseous envelope isn’t lifeless; rather, the lower and middle parts of this ocean of gases are home to countless humans, plants, and animals. It’s the most beautiful part of our environment, where flowers bloom and humans breathe. Even above this layer, life exists. Scientists have found signs of life up to 6 miles above the Earth, with bacteria, fungi, and pollen present in the air. Signs of life have even been discovered up to 14 miles above the Earth. Along with living organisms, there are also dead elements in this aerial ocean. Our weather, monsoon rains, and storms are all influenced by the ozone layer.
All these facts highlight that nothing in this universe is useless. The question now is: Is the ozone layer, which is linked to various aspects of our lives, in good condition? Is it being harmed? It’s important to mention that the ozone layer absorbs a significant portion of the ultraviolet radiation from the sun, specifically UVB rays. UVB is associated with many harmful effects, including several types of skin cancer. Additionally, it affects crops, certain materials, and marine life. Until recently, any natural depletion of the ozone layer would be automatically replenished, but recent scientific evidence shows that the ozone layer is at risk. Studies reveal that the ozone layer is being affected every winter due to falling temperatures, and household appliances such as refrigerators and fire extinguishing chemicals are also harming it. However, if we curb deforestation, reduce the use of smoke-emitting vehicles and vans on the roads, and avoid burning trash, we can significantly protect the ozone layer from further damage.
