Finally.. The Earth is gradually recovering!
A pressing question arises on
the International Day for the Conservation of the Ozone Layer, which falls on September 16: What would happen to the Earth if it disappeared? Where have efforts reached to contain the hole in this vital shield of the Earth?
First we need to
know the problem by getting to know the ozone layer itself. It is found at an altitude of 15 to 35 kilometers above the Earth's surface in the stratosphere, and contains a high concentration of ozone molecules "O₃".
The ozone molecule is
- a chemical compound consisting of three oxygen atoms "O₃"
- and it is formed when high-energy ultraviolet rays emitted
- by the sun divide ordinary oxygen molecules "O₂"
into individual atoms. These free atoms then collide with other
oxygen molecules "O₂" and bind to them, forming ozone "O₃".
The ozone layer acts
- as a protective shield for the Earth from harmful sunlight.
- Although ozone in this layer is relatively rare and represents only
Ozone's mission
is very sensitive, which is to absorb between 97 and 99 percent of the sun's harmful electromagnetic rays "UV-B" and "UV-C". These two types of harmful rays have sufficient energy capable of damaging the DNA of living organisms.
The alarm bell rose in
the 1980s when an "ozone hole" was discovered over Antarctica.
This led to the emergence of the Montreal Global Protocol to phase out harmful chemicals such as chlorofluorocarbons, which are responsible for ozone erosion.
What will happen to
the Earth if the ozone layer disappears?
If the ozone layer suddenly disappears, the consequences for life on Earth will be catastrophic and rapid. The Earth's surface will be hit by very intense ultraviolet (UV-B) and ultraviolet-C (UV-C) rays.
UVB radiation is a major cause of skin cancers, including fatal melanoma.
Without the ozone layer, the incidence of skin cancer would increase dramatically.
Ultraviolet rays also cause cataracts and other eye diseases such as photokeratitis, which is a sunburn that affects the eye, leading to high rates of blindness.
The ozone layer is one of
the planet’s vital shields, and it provides direct and indirect benefits that sustain life as we know it. Below is a brief article on its most important benefits:
Introduction
The ozone layer is located in the upper atmosphere (the stratosphere) and contains ozone molecules (O₃). Although present in small concentrations, its functions are essential for the continued existence of life on Earth.
Key Benefits of the Ozone Layer
-
Protection from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation (UV-B and UV-C): The ozone layer absorbs most of the short wavelength ultraviolet radiation, which causes sunburn, damages DNA, and increases the risk of skin cancers.
-
Preservation of eye and skin health: Reducing exposure to ultraviolet radiation helps lower the incidence of cataracts and other radiation-related skin conditions.
-
Protection of ecosystems: Strong ultraviolet radiation harms plants and marine plankton, which affects the food chain. The ozone layer helps maintain ecosystem balance and ensures continued biological productivity.
-
Protection of agricultural crops: By reducing DNA damage in plants, the ozone layer contributes to protecting crops and improving agricultural yields.
-
Influence on stratospheric climate: Absorption of ultraviolet radiation affects the temperature and balance of the upper atmosphere, playing a role in atmospheric dynamics.
Conclusion
Protecting the ozone layer is a global responsibility
measures such as limiting ozone-depleting substances (like chlorofluorocarbons) and adhering to international protocols are essential to preserve this vital barrier.
Safeguarding the ozone layer means protecting our health
our environment, and the future of coming generations.