MCQ Detailed View

International Ozone Day, officially known as the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer, is observed every year on September 16. This date was chosen to mark the signing of the Montreal Protocol in 1987, an international treaty designed to protect the ozone layer by phasing out the production and use of ozone-depleting substances (ODS).

The ozone layer is a protective shield in Earth’s stratosphere that absorbs most of the Sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Without it, life on Earth would be exposed to dangerous levels of UV rays, which can cause skin cancer, cataracts, and harm to plants, animals, and marine life.

By the 1970s and 1980s, scientists discovered that human-made chemicals such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) were thinning the ozone layer, creating what became known as the “ozone hole.” This discovery led to international action and cooperation, resulting in the Montreal Protocol. The treaty has been hailed as one of the most successful environmental agreements in history because it brought countries together to tackle a global problem effectively.

International Ozone Day serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting our environment. Events on this day include awareness campaigns, seminars, school activities, and community programs that educate people about the ozone layer and ways to protect it.

The theme for Ozone Day changes every year, focusing on different aspects of environmental protection and sustainability. Thanks to international efforts, the ozone layer is now slowly healing, but continued action is necessary to ensure its complete recovery.

Key Points:

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  Observed On: September 16

  
  


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  Purpose: Preservation of the ozone layer

  
  


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  Established: By the United Nations in 1994

  
  


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  Linked Treaty: Montreal Protocol (1987)

  
  


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  Reason: Protection from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation

  
  


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  Threats: Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and other ozone-depleting substances

  
  


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  Current Status: Ozone layer is slowly recovering due to global cooperation