Actively protect the Ozone layer for the safety of society

 

THE ozone layer is located in the Earth’s stratosphere, starting at an altitude of 15-50 kilometres and spanning a thickness of about 56 kilometres. It absorbs harmful ultraviolet-B and C rays from the sun, protecting animals on Earth and reducing the risk of skin cancer, cataracts, and other health problems in humans. Additionally, the ozone layer helps safeguard ecosystems, regulates climate, and minimizes damage to plastic, wood, and rubber products.

Man-made chemicals such as Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), Hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), and Bromochloromethane (BrCH2 Cl) can damage the ozone layer. These substances are released from refrigerators, air conditioners, fire extinguishers, pesticides, fossil fuels, and industrial gases and chemicals, all of which harm the ozone layer. Natural events such as volcanic eruptions and forest fires can also release substances that contribute to ozone layer depletion.

Myanmar has established a national ozone unit to work actively on ozone layer conservation. As a member of the Montreal Protocol, Myanmar cooperates with other countries to protect the ozone layer and mitigate climate change. While the country has relatively low production of ozone-depleting substances, it fully complies with the commitments of the Montreal Protocol.

The 28th meeting of the Montreal Protocol members adopted the Kigali Amendment to reduce the production and use of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) to control substances harmful to the ozone layer. Through the Kigali Amendment, climate action is being accelerated, with countries committing to phase down HFCs – powerful climate-warming gases that replaced ozone-depleting substances. If fully ratified and implemented, this Amendment could prevent up to 0.5°C of warming by 2100.

The Montreal Protocol is rightly hailed as a success story of multilateralism. It united the world to phase out ozone-depleting substances, setting the ozone layer on a path to recovery and protecting all life on Earth. On this World Ozone Day, countries celebrate climate action in line with the 2024 theme, “Montreal Protocol: Advancing Climate Actions.”

António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations, stated: “On this World Ozone Day, let’s commit to making peace with our planet. Let’s build on the success of the Montreal Protocol to show what international cooperation at its best can achieve.” It is essential for all global countries and people in individuals to thoroughly understand the value of the ozone layer in protecting themselves and the whole world and ensuring a sustainable future as part of saving their lives and generations.

#TheGlobalNewLightOfMyanmar