The 16th of September marked World ozone day. It is observed for the preservation of the ozone layer. 

The ozone layer, a fragile shield of gas, protects the Earth from the harmful portion of the rays of the sun, thus helping preserve life on the planet. 

The phaseout of controlled uses of ozone-depleting substances and the related reductions have not only helped protect the ozone layer for this and future generations but have also contributed significantly to global efforts to address climate change. Furthermore, it has protected human health and ecosystems by limiting harmful ultraviolet radiation from reaching the Earth.

Several treaties have been put into action to work for the betterment of our ozone layer. As the treaty turns 35 on Ozone Day, we will remember how the Montreal Protocol ended one of the biggest threats ever to face humanity as a whole, the depletion of the ozone layer. When the world found out that ozone-depleting gases used in aerosols and cooling were creating a hole in the sky, they came together. They showed that multilateralism and effective global cooperation worked and they phased out these gases. Now the ozone layer is healing, allowing it once again to shield humanity from the sun’s ultraviolet radiation. 

The scientific confirmation of the depletion of the ozone layer prompted the international community to establish a mechanism for cooperation to take action to protect the ozone layer. This was formalized in the Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer, which was adopted and signed by 28 countries, on 22 March 1985. In September 1987, this led to the drafting of The Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer.

On 16th September 2009, the Vienna Convention and the Montreal Protocol became the first treaties in the history of the United Nations to achieve universal ratification.

This year the theme announced by the UN Environment Programme for International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer 2022 is ‘Global Cooperation Protecting Life on Earth.’ This year, the world aims to provide access to vital cooling technology without further warming the planet. The Montreal Protocol’s influence is seen heavily with this theme. It brings to notice the ‘need to act in collaboration, partnerships and develop global cooperation to address climate challenges and protect life on earth for future generations.

Ozone is in dire need of our care and attention. Let’s not write our own death with our own hands. Every ozone hole, is a threat to our soul.

-Darshini Shah