The depletion of ozone layer is a phenomenon that threatens the very existence of this beautiful world and poses a great danger to future generations if concrete steps are not taken to keep it in hold. Ozone layer is a protective layer present in stratosphere that prevents the harmful layer of sun from reaching the earth.
When chlorofloro carbons; CFCs and HCFCs reach the stratosphere, the ultraviolet radiations disintegrate them producing chlorine atoms that react with ozone, starting slow chain reactions ultimately leading to destruction of ozone. The reasons of ozone depletion are primarily man made activities. The presence of ozone depleting substances, several of which are present due to our own indiscriminate use of electric appliances, are a major setback to existence of an undamaged ozone layer.
Recent studies have concluded that chemicals not previously linked to depletion of ozone layer are growing to an alarming number endangering the existence of an intact ozone layer. These substances, called "Very short lived substances" (VSLS), are produced naturally and synthetically. Researchers had created a 3D model to gauge the effect of VSLS on ozone. The measurements of VSLS for the last twenty years were examined and a man-made chemical called dicholro methane was found to be on a dangerous level. This chemical is used in industrial processes and it can thwart the slow recovery the ozone layer has been making after the effects of increased usage of CFCs.
Scientists sure consider this chemical, which is not governed by the Montreal Protocol, a threat to ozone and eventually human life. The researchers also separated VSLS produced by natural substances (such as sea weed) and those by man made ones. The contribution by natural VSLS to the destruction of ozone is 90 percent but the man made VSLS is also on rise and is expected to outrun the percentage of natural VSLS.
