The Earth’s ozone layer protects all life from the sun’s harmful radiation, but human activities have damaged this shield.
Reduced ozone levels as a result of ozone depletion mean less protection from the sun’s rays and more exposure to UVB radiation at the Earth’s surface.
This page provides information on compounds recognized as ozone-depleting substances (ODS) under the Montreal Protocol.
The Atmospheric and Health Effects Framework (AHEF) model is used by the EPA to evaluate human health effects associated with a depleted stratospheric ozone layer.
As part of the United States’ commitment to implementing the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer, Congress amended the Clean Air Act to add provisions (under Title VI) for protecting the ozone layer.
In the atmosphere, methyl bromide depletes the ozone layer and allows increased ultraviolet radiation to reach the earth’s surface.
New production and import of most HCFCs were phased out as of 2020.
Explore how successful ozone layer protection is a part of our everyday life through this interactive webpage.