Guardians of the Sky: Celebrating the International Day of Ozone Prevention
International Days
The world will not be destroyed by those who do evil, but by those who watch them without doing anything.” — Albert Einstein.
Have you ever stopped to think about the invisible shield protecting you every time you step outside? We enjoy sunny days, go for walks, and live our lives under a sky that’s far more protective than we realize. But imagine what would happen if the sun's harsh rays could reach us directly? How would our skin, our eyes, and even the plants we depend on survive? These are questions we rarely ask, but they remind us of the fragile barrier that makes life possible on Earth: the ozone layer.
The ozone layer is like the Earth’s sunscreen. It’s a thin but essential layer of ozone gas found high up in the stratosphere, between 15 to 30 kilometers above the surface. It absorbs and blocks harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. Without it, we’d face increased risks of skin cancer, cataracts, and harm to our ecosystems. Think of how much sunscreen you apply before going out in the sun - the ozone layer does that job for the entire planet!
In the 1980s, scientists made a shocking discovery: there was a massive hole in the ozone layer above Antarctica. Human-made chemicals, especially chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) found in things like refrigerators and aerosol sprays, were eating away at the ozone layer. The world was suddenly faced with a huge problem-one that threatened not just the environment, but our health and safety.
The good news? The world took action. In 1987, countries around the globe came together and signed the Montreal Protocol, an international agreement to phase out the production and use of ozone-depleting substances. This was a major step, showing what we can achieve when we work together. Thanks to the Montreal Protocol, the use of harmful chemicals like CFCs has drastically decreased, and the ozone layer is slowly healing. Scientists believe it could return to its pre-1980 levels by the 2060s.
This global effort is commemorated every year on September 16, the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer. The day is a reminder of the success we've achieved through collective action and a call to remain vigilant in protecting our planet. It was established by the United Nations to celebrate the Montreal Protocol’s achievements and raise awareness about the ongoing challenges in ozone layer preservation.
The Montreal Protocol is often hailed as one of the most successful environmental agreements ever. Thanks to this global effort, the ozone hole is shrinking, and many of the dangerous chemicals once used have been replaced by safer alternatives. This is a real-life example of how humans can solve problems when we unite for a common cause.
Even though we've made great progress, the work isn’t done. Some ozone-depleting chemicals last for decades, meaning their effects will still be felt for years to come. In addition, new chemicals and climate change itself pose fresh challenges to ozone recovery. As the planet warms, changes in the stratosphere could affect the ozone layer’s ability to heal. This means that our efforts to protect the ozone layer and fight climate change must go hand in hand.
Sri Lanka has played an important role in the global fight to protect the ozone layer. Through the National Ozone Unit, the country has successfully reduced the use of ozone-depleting substances and is working on phasing out the use of HCFCs. In recognition of these efforts, Sri Lanka was awarded the ‘Implementer’s Award’ by the United Nations Ozone Secretariat.
You might be wondering, “What can I do to help?” It’s simple. We can all take steps to reduce our environmental impact. Use energy-efficient appliances, support businesses that follow sustainable practices, and reduce your carbon footprint. Every small step we take contributes to a larger global effort.
As we celebrate the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer, let’s remind ourselves that the fight is not over. But the success of the Montreal Protocol shows us that when nations, businesses, and individuals come together, we can make real change. We protected the ozone layer once, and we can continue to do so.
So, as you step outside today, feel the sun on your skin, and remember the invisible shield above you. Isn’t it our responsibility to ensure that this vital protection remains strong? Let’s ask ourselves what more we can do to safeguard our roof, the ozone layer, and make Earth a safer, healthier place for all living beings.
