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Ozone Depletion: Protect the Protective Layer

Ozone Depletion: Protect the Protective Layer

49 signatures 1 to reach 50
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Started by Samantha Joyce 11 years, 11 months ago
The ozone layer in our stratosphere is about 20 kilometers thick. It acts as a protective blanket for earth by absorbing UV radiation before it can reach earth's surface and all of its inhabitants. This natural protection has been slowly destroyed by man made chemicals called ozone depleting substances (ODS).

Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) are one example of an ODS and they account for over 80% of total destruction to the ozone layer. In the stratosphere, CFCs are broken down by UV light to release chloride ions. Then the chloride ions react with ozone molecules to produce ClO and oxygen. The ClO joins with an oxygen atom to form more oxygen gas and release a chloride ion. This leaves a free chloride ion to destroy another ozone molecule, repeating the cycle over and over causing a depletion of ozone.

With a decrease in the ozone layer, health risks to both humans and animals increases exponentially. Some risks include sunburns, skin cancer, blindness and cataracts (clouding of the lens). Plankton are dangerously threatened by UV radiation, which could cause a disruption in the oceanic food chain. Also, the photosynthetic rates in plants can dramatically decrease due to damage and mutation to plant cells.

By halting the production and use of ozone depleting substances, we can help repair the ozone layer and prevent further harmful outcomes. By signing this petition, you pledge to stop the use of ozone depleting substances and to help the ozone layer recover. Some ways you can do this are by avoiding pesticides, unplugging electronics when they are not in use, buying energy efficient appliances, carpooling or walking as frequently as possible, and planting multiple trees to help absorb the harmful UV rays.

Over time, with everyone working together, we can restore our ozone to a more healthy level, and help save lives throughout the world.

Updates

August 13, 2014

Watching the latest data on radiation levels reminds me exactly why this fight matters for my family and everyone else. The messages I receive from those of you worried about the health of our planet keep me motivated to push for real policy changes.

August 13, 2014

Seeing the community rally behind the protection of our atmosphere is deeply moving. When I started this, I worried that people felt the damage was already too far gone, but this momentum proves we still have the power to change our path.

4 Comments

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Mike Parker
11 years ago Featured

Fix the ozone layer now. Dont wait for disaster.

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Sarah Yang
11 years ago Featured

Why are we still using this stuff. Seriously. It is 2016 and we know better by now.

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Dave Russell
11 years ago Featured

my dad had skin cancer and it was brutal. we need to stop messing with the atmosphere before things get even worse for the next generation.

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Rekha
9 years ago

Good idea:-)

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