AFTER years of persisting, the massive hole in the ozone layer above the Antarctic has finally begun to ‘heal’.
Studies have shown an increase in the ozone in the icy regions suggesting the Montreal Protocol agreement, signed almost three decades ago to limit the use of chlorofluorocarbons and other substances responsible for the depletion of the ozone layer, is having a positive effect.
The protective gas composed of three oxygen molecules soaks up ultraviolet radiation from the sun, keeping us safe.
Without the ozone layer we would be exposed to harmful and dangerous levels of UV-B rays which can lead to mutations that can cause cancer.
Since the agreement signing in 1989 the signs of ozone depletion have been highly reduced.
Susan Solomon, Professor of Climate Science and her colleagues have identified several consistent signals of healing in the Antarctic, particularly in the month of September.
During the research they also found out that volcanic eruptions which are natural forces, have slowed down the healing of the ozone layer.
Scientists like Susan, are needed in our communities to combat the irregularities we are facing and going to be facing in our world.
