World Ozone Day (16 September) History, Significance, Theme and Observation

World Ozone Day Quick Facts

World Ozone Day Brief

World Ozone Day or 'Ozone Layer Protection Day' is celebrated all over the world on 16 September.

World Ozone Day History

On 23 January 1995, the United Nations General Assembly passed a resolution to celebrate 16 September as International Ozone Day to bring awareness to people all over the world. At that time the goal was to create an ozone friendly environment all over the world by 2010.

This target has not been fully achieved even till 2010. Although the goal is still far away, the world has done remarkable work towards saving the ozone layer. The result of the effort to save the ozone layer is that today ozone-friendly fridges, coolers, etc. have come in the market.

More info about World Ozone Day

What is Ozone?

Ozone is a pale blue gas. The ozone layer is generally found between 10 km and 50 km above the surface. This gas acts as a good filter for ultraviolet rays from the sun.

Ozone is a gas consisting of three atoms of oxygen which is found in very small amounts in the atmosphere. Its concentration is one tenth of a million. This gas is formed naturally.

What is Ozone layer?

The ozone layer is a thin layer of ozone gas in the stratosphere of the atmosphere at an altitude of 20-30 km above the Earth's surface. The concentration of the ozone layer in terms of the volume of the atmosphere is about 10 ppm. The ozone layer prevents harmful ultraviolet rays from reaching the earth. If all the ultraviolet rays coming from the sun had reached the earth, then all the living beings on earth would suffer from diseases (like cancer). All the trees and plants would be destroyed. That is why the ozone layer or ozone layer is called the protective shield.

Effects of Ozone Depletion:

• Humans and animals: It can also make the skin dry, wrinkled and premature aging by increasing the rate of skin cancer. It can increase eye disorders especially cataract in humans and animals. It can reduce the immunity of humans and animals to fight diseases.
• Vegetation: UV radiation can reduce growth leaf size, prolong germination time. It can reduce the amount of grains obtained from pulses such as corn, rice, soybeans, peas, wheat, etc.
• Food-Chain: The penetration of ultraviolet rays deep into the ocean surface can slow the growth of microscopic aquatic plants (phytoplanktons). These small floating producers are the first link in the ocean and wetland food chains, as well as contribute to the removal of atmospheric carbon dioxide. This will also affect the terrestrial food chain.
• Substance: Increased ultraviolet radiation will damage paints, fabrics, and discolor them. Plastic furniture, pipes will wear out faster.

Important Days of September Month - (National Days and International Days):