The Ozone Layer Depletion and Its Causes

The first action that has been taken to ozone layer depletion is the formation of the Montreal Protocol on ozone layer depleting substances in 1987. This was an international treaty signed by countries to reduce the production and the use of substances that can cause ozone layer depletion. By limiting the production and consumption of these substances, their existence in the atmosphere is reduced and thus saving the ozone layer from getting depleted (Protocol, 2010). The treaty also required the countries to ban the importation for local consumption of substances containing CFCs and HCFCs, which are the major causes of ozone layer depletion. Through the Montreal Protocol treaty, the EU has been able to put strict measures on the production and consumption of substances considered a threat to the ozone layer. Another action taken to reduce the depletion of the ozone layer is the awareness campaign and activism by the environmental advocacy groups as well as environmentalists. Many environmental advocacy groups have been formed to lead in the campaign to promote awareness of the importance of the ozone layer and how to protect it. Sometimes through mass actions and legal battles, these groups stand up to oppose any move by either the government or any other institution that is deemed to be dangerous to the environment. Examples of such groups include Friends of Earth, which have stood out to oppose any action that can threaten the ozone layer. 

Individuals who are sensitive to the environment have also taken personal actions to avoid the depletion of the ozone layer. Such individual actions include minimizing the use of cars, maintaining air conditioners, and avoiding the use of products that are harmful to the environment. These individual actions have led to many people avoiding the use of products that can harm the environment and cause ozone layer depletion. 

Reference  

Protocol, M. (2010). Montreal protocol on substances that deplete the ozone layer.  Washington, DC: US Government Printing Office ,  26 , 128-136.