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The Montreal Protocol was adopted on 16 September 1987. Governments agreed to co-operate in phasing out chemicals that deplete the ozone layer. Zambia adopted this Protocol in 1992. On 16 September, 1995 countries all over the world celebrated the Ozone day for the first time.
This invisible layer in the atmosphere protects the Earth from harmful ultra-violet rays from the sun. Should these ultra-violet rays reach Earth by passing through the thinning ozone layer, skin cancer and damage to crops increases. Ozone depleting substances such as chloro-fluoro-carbons (CFC), hydro-fluoro-carbons, methyl bromide, to mention a few, are pollutants used all over the world.
CFCs are synthetic compounds formerly used as refrigerants and aerosol propellants and known to be harmful to the ozone layer of the atmosphere There has been an attempt by manufacturers of products releasing these pollutants to produce ‘ozone friendly' products.
These pollutants are emitted from products such as refrigerators, air conditioners, spray cans, portable fire extinguishers, insulation boards, agricultural products and pesticides. By celebrating this day, we are reminded of the necessity to live in ways that do not contribute to the depletion of this vital and essential layer of atmosphere that shields Earth. It also gives individuals and organisations time to reflect on what progress has taken place to combat this environmental threat.
Key question: Which household activities cause damage to the ozone layer?
Suggested Activities:
- Make an audit (survey) of the ozone-damaging substances used by your school / institution, home or community in a year or other shorter period. Record in a table or other format of your choice. Discuss why they are a problem. What practical alternatives exist? How would you individually, as a family, class or community start phasing out the harmful substances? Develop a plan and start implementing it.
- Collect data showing consumption of CFC in Zambia from 1986 – 2007. Draw a bar chart to represent the data. Comment on the trends.
Contact: National Ozone Unit, Environmental Council of Zambia