This week features “International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer”. It’s a big week for raising awareness of our environment and taking care of the planet we live in. In respect of this, we wanted to share what the day is all about and why it’s so important.
What is International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer?
International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer commemorates the 1987 signing of the Montreal Protocol on substances and celebrates the progress in protecting the Ozone Layer, working towards the phasing out of Ozone depleting chemicals.
Why is the Ozone Layer important?
The Ozone Layer is important because it serves as a shield, absorbing Ultra Violet (UV) rays, protecting the Earth’s surface from damage. The day is used to raise awareness of the issue and to provide advice to help encourage everyone to do their bit to help.
How can we protect the Ozone Layer?
By gradually phasing out the use of harmful substances, we can help preserve and protect the Ozone Layer for future generations and contribute significantly to global efforts of addressing climate change.
Below are some useful ways you can do your bit to help protect the Ozone Layer:
1. Minimise the use of cars – Try using public transportation or by getting in some exercise by walking or riding a bicycle. If driving is essential, you could try carpooling to decrease the use of multiple cars.
2. Avoid use of harmful cleaning products – Products containing solvents and corrosive substances are not only harmful to the environment, but also to us. Try using non-toxic products such as natural soaps, vinegar or bicarbonate of soda as alternatives.
3. Buy wood products that haven’t been treated with methyl – Methyl is a pesticide that protects wood but can also emit elemental bromine in a process known as “off gassing”. This gas damages and depletes our Ozone Layer.
Try to avoid wood products with the stamp “MB” (which stands for methyl bromide) as it indicates Methyl has been used to treat the wood. Try sourcing other woods and asking the person you’re buying from how the wood has been treated- Something to bear in mind the next time you’re buying a wooden desk or set of shelves.
4. Reduce food waste – Food waste in landfills release methane, a powerful greenhouse gas that can damage the Ozone Layer. In the UK alone, 1.9 million tons of food is wasted every year with 250,000 tons of that food waste still being edible. Taking more steps to ensure less food waste means less waste in transportation, and a reduction in methane gas being released into our environment protecting the planet.
5. Buy local produce – Avoiding buying products that have travelled long distances when possible helps cut down on demand. This means less carbon monoxide and other harmful gasses being released into the atmosphere.
There are so many ways we can do our part to protect our environment and preserve the Earth, helping maintain its natural balance. After all, it’s our planet, our home, that belongs to all of us.
Are there any methods you’re excited to try? Why not give it a go and spread the word too!
