World Ozone Day 2019: Products That Cause Ozone Depletion And Their Eco-friendly Alternatives

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16 September is celebrated as the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer. It was proclaimed by the UN General Assembly in the year 1994 to commemorate the signing of the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer in 1987. This year, the theme for International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer is '32 Years and Healing'.

History Of World Ozone Day

In May 1985, scientists associated with the British Antarctic Survey discovered that there is a huge hole in the ozone layer over Antarctica. Ozone-depleting substances were held responsible for this catastrophic effect on the environment. Soon after this discovery was made, the international community came forward to establish a cooperation to act against the depletion of the ozone layer.

This was made formal with the consent of 28 countries in the Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer on 22 March 1985. Later, the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer was signed on 16 September 1987 and the same day is celebrated as the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer.

The ozone layer is situated in the earth's stratosphere (extends up to 50 km from the earth's surface) and it absorbs most of the sun's harmful ultraviolet rays, thereby protecting us from a number of skin diseases, including cancer. The substances that deplete the ozone layer include chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), halons, methyl chloroform, methyl bromide, carbon tetrachloride, and hydrobromoflurocarbons (HBFCs).

Products That Contain Ozone-depleting Substances

1. Fire extinguisher

Fire extinguisher surely saves lives and property, but this product is detrimental to the ozone layer because it contains haloalkanes. They are a group of chemical compounds, comprising of alkanes (methane or ethane), linked with one or more halogens (chlorine or fluorine), which make them organic halides ^[1] . They have an ozone-depleting potential 10 times that of CFC.

Alternatives you can use: Cow hooves, salt, and baking soda

2. Hair sprays

Most hair sprays used today are CFC-free aerosol sprays. However, they still release volatile organic compounds into the atmosphere that contribute to the depletion in the ozone layer. Not only hair sprays, but perfumes, mouthwashes, roll-on and stick deodorants also emit the same compounds.

Alternatives you can use: Go for home-made hair sprays rather than using the chemical ones.

3. Insect repellent sprays

Various kinds of insect repellents are found in the market today. But did you know that these insect repellent sprays are detrimental to the ozone layer because they contain CFCs and HCFCs ^[2] .

Alternatives you can use: Eucalyptus, clove, rosemary, or lemongrass insect repellent spray

4. Foam insulation

Foam insulation is used in electronic appliances such as air conditioners, refrigerators and in pipe insulation. This commonly used product contains HCFC (Hydrochlorofluorocarbons) which cause damage to plants and contributes to global warming.

Alternatives you can use: Soy-based spray foam, and sheep's wool insulation.

To Conclude...

Even though we are using ozone-depleting products on a daily basis, we can reduce their impact on the environment by using them in limited amounts. Also, use eco-friendly products as much as possible to avoid further depletion of the ozone layer.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.