Ozone-Depleting Substances (ODS)

About:

• Ozone-depleting substances (ODS) are chemicals that cause the depletion of the stratospheric ozone layer.
  • This layer is crucial for protecting life on Earth by absorbing the majority of the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
• The most common ODS include chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), halons, carbon tetrachloride, and methyl chloroform.
• ODS are substances commonly used in refrigerators, air conditioners, fire extinguishers, and aerosols.

The Montreal Protocol:

• The Montreal Protocol, signed in 1987, is a global agreement to protect the stratospheric ozone layer by eliminating the production and consumption of ODSs like chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs).
• The worldwide production of CFCs has been prohibited since 2010.

Kigali Amendment to Montreal Protocol:

• In 2016, Parties to the Montreal Protocol adopted the Kigali Amendment to phase down the production and consumption of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) worldwide.

HFCs are widely used alternatives to ODS such as hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) and chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), already controlled under the Protocol.

Q1: What is Ultraviolet (UV) radiation?

It is a form of non-ionizing radiation that is emitted by the sun and artificial sources, such as tanning beds. The beneficial effects of UV radiation include the production of a vital nutrient, vitamin D; however, overexposure may present risks. Sunburn, premature ageing, and skin cancer are all risks of overexposure.

Source: Environmental milestone! Ozone-depleting HCFCs show drop in levels 5 years ahead of target year