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Saturday, January 28, 2017
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IN 1985, alarmed by the hole in the ozone layer above Antarctica, nations adopted the Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer. This was followed in 1987 by the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer, which banned the use of substances that are responsible for ozone depletion such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs). All members of the United Nations ratified the two treaties.
Three decades after the Vienna Convention was adopted, scientists confirm that the hole in the ozone layer above Antarctica is beginning to close. According to recent research by the University of Leeds and Massachusetts Institute of Technology, the hole may close permanently by 2050.
However, the United Nations Environment Programme has now raised concerns over the use of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), which replaced the CFCs and the HCFCs. While the HFCs are good for the ozone layer, they contribute to global warming.
Yes, we are happy that the ozone layer is now gradually recovering, but now we are faced with challenges brought about by climate change. We must continue with our efforts towards healing the ozone layer but we must also take urgent action to limit global warming. Let us encourage one another to continue doing our part in helping heal the ozone layer while also taking action to address other environmental concerns such as climate change.
The healing of our ozone layer through every nation’s adherence to the Vienna Convention and Montreal Protocol is proof that when nations unite and work together, we can fight a challenge as great as ozone layer depletion. This should inspire us as we now aim to halt further warming of the planet.
Let us be reminded that no challenge is too great if all of humanity will unite to protect our only home. Development need not come at the cost of the environment and the survival of the Earth. Our actions must be geared towards development that is sustainable, one that ensures a livableworld for future generations.
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