Trivia about the Ozone Layer

Although ozone (O3) is present in small concentrations throughout the atmosphere, most ozone (about 90{1104248511d637c6a51014dcaacb77de829b1de96a4faa7392b7bed9a15aa427}) exists in the stratosphere, in a layer between 10 and 50km above the surface of the earth. This ozone layer performs the essential task of filtering out most of the sun’s biologically harmful ultraviolet (UV-B) radiation. Concentrations of ozone in the atmosphere vary naturally according to temperature, weather, latitude and altitude. Furthermore, aerosols and other particles ejected by natural events such as volcanic eruptions can have measurable impacts on ozone levels.

There are possible ways to protect the ozone layer such as:

1. Minimize high altitude aircraft flights (oxygen reduction and water vapor deposition).
2. Minimize rocket flights (water vapor deposition).
3. Encourage growth of plants that produce oxygen, discourage deforestation.
4. Decrease / control releases of high temperature steam / moisture to the atmosphere.
5. Eliminate production and release of known ozone depleting chemicals (such as CFCs
and HCFCs) where remotely possible. Subsidize production of safer alternatives where
possible.
6. Establish controls to assure that new compounds to be used in high volume, are
surveyed for effect on ozone.

Moreover, an individual can also do his share by doing the following:

– Try to use products which are labeled “Ozone-Friendly.”
– Ensure technicians repairing your refrigerator or air conditioner recover and recycle the
old CFCs so they are not released into the atmosphere.
– Vehicle air conditioning units should regularly be checked for leaks.
– Ask about converting your car to a substitute refrigerant if the a/c system needs major
repair
– Help start a refrigerant recovery and recycling program in your area if none already
exists.
– Replace halon fire extinguishers with alternatives (e.g. carbon dioxide or foam).
– Suggest school activities to increase awareness of the problem and to initiate local
action.

Save our sky, protect yourself, protect the ozone layer.