International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer

ozone

What is International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer?

The ozone layer, a fragile shield of gas, protects the Earth from the harmful portion of the rays of the sun, thus helping preserve life on the planet.

The theme for this year celebrates over three decades of remarkable international cooperation to protect the ozone layer and the climate.

On this day educators throughout the world organise classroom activities that focus on topics related to the ozone layer, climate change and ozone depletion.

Things to talk about with the children:

Why is the ozone layer important?

Ozone molecules in the atmosphere provide us with important protection from the rays of the sun. Specifically, these molecules are good at absorbing certain ultraviolet rays that can cause sunburn and skin cancer.

How is the ozone layer getting damaged?

It turns out that certain types of molecules can cause a chemical reaction when they come in contact with ozone molecules. This causes the ozone to break up and become unable to absorb ultraviolet light. The main molecules that are destroying the ozone layer are called chlorofluorocarbons or CFCs. These are found in a large variety of products. If we can limit their use in our everyday loves, we can help preserve the ozone layer.

When is International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer?

Saturday, 16 September

Facts About the Ozone Layer

  • The word "ozone" means smelly in Greek because the gas has a strong odor.
  • CFC molecules are highly stable and can last for up to 100 years. Unfortunately, this gives them plenty of time to find their way to the ozone layer.
  • One chlorine molecule from a CFC can destroy up to 100,000 ozone molecules.
  • Ultraviolet rays can also have bad effects on nature. They can kill plankton, which is a major source of food in the ocean's food chain.
  • The ozone layer over Antarctica is very thin. It is sometimes called the "hole" in the ozone layer.

For more information and resources that you may be able to use, go to the UN webpage: https://www.un.org/en/events/ozoneday/