Question

Why is damage to the ozone layer a cause for concern? What steps are being taken to limit this damage?

Answer 1

1. The damage to the ozone layer is a cause for concern because:
   • It causes skin darkening, skin cancer, aging, and corneal cataracts in human beings.
   • It can result in many phytoplankton deaths, leading to increased global warming.
2. To limit the damage to the ozone layer, the release of CFCs into the atmosphere must be reduced. CFCs used as refrigerants and in fire extinguishers should be replaced with environmentally safe alternatives. Also, the release of CFCs through industrial activities should be controlled.

Answer 2

1. The ozone layer is a protective shield around the earth. It prevents harmful ultraviolet radiation from the sun from reaching the earth. Air pollutants, like chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), are causing the depletion of the ozone layer. This is allowing a greater amount of UV radiation to reach the earth. Free web support in education 4 upsets the ecosystem by affecting photosynthesis in plants, destroying plankton and decomposers. In human beings, UV radiation may cause skin cancer, cataracts of the eyes, and damage to the immune system.
2. Several developed, as well as developing nations in the world have agreed to sign and obey the directions of the TINEP (United Nations Environment Programme) to freeze the production of CFCs or to limit their production to some extent.