Learning from Our Mistakes: The Healing Ozone

The UN has officially announced that the damage done to the ozone is being reversed and is on its way to healing. 

In the flood of negative news concerning the development of climate change, there has been a significant positive development – the ozone is healing. Since the late 1980s, ozone degradation has been a main concern amongst environmentalists. The ozone’s importance lies in its ability to absorb most of the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation. UV radiation contributes to human health risks, like skin cancer and cataracts, while also affecting the level of heat absorbed by Earth.

A recent United Nations report has confirmed that the ozone is healing. The report estimates its recovery “is expected by around 2066 and 2045 over the Arctic.” Notably, this report provides quantitative evidence of effective human intervention in the climate crisis, underlying the importance of a global strategy in reversing the effects of climate change. A fact-based approach is essential as many individuals still have a limited understanding of the climate crisis. This phenomenon provides a unique learning opportunity, and we can assess its significance through a series of questions: 

What led to this improvement in the ozone?

The first mention of the ozone’s early erosion was made in 1985 by scientists from the British Antarctic Survey. The problem lay in ozone-depleting substances (ODS), specifically chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) used as aerosol propellants, refrigerants, solvents, and propellants foam-blowing agents. Other ODSs include hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), carbon tetrachloride, and methyl chloroform. These pollutants, when released into the atmosphere, participate in catalytic reactions that progressively deplete the ozone. With this information, the problem was clearly recognized, which allowed leaders and corporations to mobilize. The Montreal Protocol (1987) was born out of this mobilization, marking a global agreement to phase out the ODS from markets to halt the damage done to the ozone layer. Moreover, the protocol encouraged the development of alternative technologies that could be used by companies. The protocol also had an article dedicated to a multilateral fund which provides financial and technical assistance to developing countries that comply with the measures set forth by the treaty. As a result, CFCs and HCFCs were banned from use.

Why did these efforts work?

The approach instigated by the Montreal Protocol worked because of global action and the effective implementation of legislation that banned hazardous chemicals. The Montreal Protocol was ratified by 196 countries, demonstrating a grand collaborative effort to phase out ODSs. Additionally, the protocol did not simply ban ODSs but offered viable alternatives and support for those who agreed to the change. This collaboration and consideration for all parties contrast that of the attempted agreements at the yearly Conference of the Parties (COP) event, in which there is a noted lack of alternatives and support offered. Moreover, there is observed disunity in COP, whereas ozone degradation legislation united all parties under a common objective. Although many aspects of the climate crisis need to be addressed, there does not seem to be an organized, focused method to do so, as political agendas and personal motives exert more significant influence. 

How can we apply these learnings to the future?

As seen with the Montreal Protocol, we must implement focused legislation that includes and encourages the development of new alternatives and aids all parties involved. These legislations must be a collective effort that is enforced multilaterally. While many terrible aspects of the climate crisis are perpetuated through destructive behaviours, nonexhaustive legislation, and an overall failure to act, it is crucial to acknowledge and learn from positive change. A healing ozone means that we are one step closer to reversing the damage done to our planet. Understanding our accomplishments is essential in addressing other aspects of the climate crisis. Learning from the past can provide us with avenues and hopes to improve our future. It is vital to analyze successful events such as the Montreal Protocol and its subsequent effect when it comes to understanding the end of the climate crisis.