Protecting the ozone layer: Global action for a cooler planet
The Western Cape Government joins communities around the world in commemorating World Ozone Day, also known as the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer, on 16 September.
The day serves as an important reminder of the vital role the ozone layer plays in protecting life on Earth, as well as what can be achieved when countries work together to address global environmental challenges.
The ozone layer is a protective layer of gas that is found high up in the earth's atmosphere, about 15 to 35 kilometers above the earth’s surface. It contains relatively high concentrations of ozone and absorbs most of the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation, particularly UV-B and UV-C radiation.
Without this natural protection, increased levels of harmful UV radiation would reach the Earth's surface, increasing risks to human health, including skin cancer and eye damage, while also affecting terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, agriculture and biodiversity.
A global environmental success story
Ozone depletion was largely driven by human-made chemicals known as ozone-depleting substances, including chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), which were historically used in products and equipment such as refrigeration and air-conditioning systems, aerosol products and solvents.
In response to growing scientific evidence of ozone depletion, countries adopted the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer on 16 September 1987. The international agreement established measures to phase out the production and consumption of ozone-depleting substances.
South Africa is a signatory to the Montreal Protocol and the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol and has contributed to global efforts to phase out ozone-depleting substances and phase down of hydrofluorocarbons. These efforts support the recovery of the ozone layer while also contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
The progress achieved through the Montreal Protocol is widely recognised as an environmental success story, demonstrating what can be achieved through sound science, international cooperation, and effective environmental action.
The Western Cape Government's commitment to protecting the atmosphere
The progress achieved through the Montreal Protocol also demonstrates how global environmental commitments can translate into action at national, provincial and local levels.
In the Western Cape, protecting the air we breathe forms part of the Province's broader commitment to air quality management, climate change response and sustainable environmental governance.
The Western Cape Government continues to promote cleaner technologies, responsible environmental practices and greater awareness of how individual and collective actions can contribute to cleaner air, healthier communities and a more resilient environment.
Protecting the ozone layer not only helps reduce exposure to harmful ultraviolet radiation but also supports broader efforts to address climate change and safeguard the Province's people, biodiversity, agriculture and natural resources for future generations.
Global action for a cooler planet
The theme for this year's International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer is “Global action for a cooler planet – Celebrating 10 years of sustainable cooling under the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol.”
This theme highlights the important link between protecting the ozone layer and addressing climate change. Efforts to phase out ozone-depleting substances and transition to more climate-friendly alternatives contribute to both a healthier atmosphere and a more sustainable future.
The Western Cape Government encourages residents to play their part by making environmentally responsible choices and supporting efforts to protect the atmosphere.
Simple actions include:
- Choose products responsibly: Where possible, check product information and avoid products containing ozone-depleting substances.
- Support cleaner energy: Support renewable energy and energy-efficient choices that can contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
- Maintain cooling equipment: Ensure air-conditioning and refrigeration equipment is properly maintained and that refrigerants are handled and recovered responsibly.
- Reduce unnecessary consumption: Reduce waste and avoid unnecessary single-use products where practical.
World Ozone Day reminds us that environmental protection is a shared responsibility. The success of the Montreal Protocol demonstrates what can be achieved through science, cooperation and collective action. The Western Cape Government remains committed to protecting the ozone layer, improving air quality, addressing climate change and promoting a healthy environment for present and future generations.
As the world continues to face interconnected environmental challenges, lessons from the protection of the ozone layer remain relevant: science matters, cooperation matters, and collective action can make a difference.
MEC Anton Bredell, Provincial MEC of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning said, “The protection of the ozone layer is one of the clearest examples of what we can achieve when science, international cooperation and practical environmental action come together. In the Western Cape, we remain committed to cleaner technologies, responsible environmental practices, and protecting the health and wellbeing of our residents and our natural environment. A cooler planet starts with collective action, and every contribution matters.”
For Media enquiries:
Rudolf van Jaarsveldt - Head of Communication
Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning
Tel: +27 (0)21 483 4051
Cell: +27 (0)76 319 5027
Email: Rudolf.vanJaarsveldt@westerncape.gov.za
Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning
Tel: +27 (0)21 483 4051
Cell: +27 (0)76 319 5027
Email: Rudolf.vanJaarsveldt@westerncape.gov.za
Province
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