question_answer 9)

Why is damage to the ozone layer a cause for concern? What steps are being taken to limit this damage?

Answer:

(i) The thinning of ozone layer results in an increase in the high energy UV-radiations reaching the earth’s atmosphere, which causes increased chances of cataract and skin cancer, decreased functioning of immune system, decreased rate of photosynthesis in the plants etc. (ii) In 1987, UNEP (United Nations Environment Programme) succeeded in arriving at an agreement to freeze CFCs production, i.e., Montreal protocol. Such preventive measures are being analyzed and improved continuously.