Ozone+Layer

Ozone Layer The ozone layer forms a thin shield high up in the sky. It protects life on Earth from the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays. Ozone is a natural gas that is found in two different layers of the atmosphere. One layer, called the troposphere which is at the Earth's surface where we live. Ozone in the troposphere is "bad" because it dirties the air and helps make smog, which is unhealthy to breathe. The other layer, called the stratosphere which is miles above the Earth's surface. Ozone in the stratosphere is "good" because it protects life on Earth by absorbing some of the sun's harmful UV rays. Stratospheric ozone is found most often between six and 30 miles above the Earth's surface. Recently, chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) were used a lot in industry and elsewhere to keep things cold and to make foam and soaps. Strong winds carry CFCs up into the stratosphere where UV radiation breaks them apart, releasing chlorine atoms. Each chlorine atom can attack and break apart (destroy) as many as 100,000 ozone molecules during the time it is in the stratosphere. The chlorine from CFCs reduces (depletes) the amount of ozone in the stratosphere. Countries around the world, including the United States, have seen the threats created by ozone depletion and agreed to a treaty called the Montreal Protocol. This Protocol will help humans to stop making and using ozone-eating chemicals. What can you do? · Try to use products which are labelled "Ozone-Friendly" · Ensure technicians repairing your refrigerator or air conditioner recover and recycle the old CFCs so they are not released into the atmosphere. · Vehicle air conditioning units should regularly be checked for leaks. · Ask about converting your car to a substitute refrigerant if the a/c system needs major repair · Help start a refrigerant recovery and recycling program in your area if none already exists. · Replace halon fire extinguishers with alternatives (e.g. carbon dioxide or foam). · Suggest school activities to increase awareness of the problem and to initiate local action.