SHINE Partners | September 2021
What is the ozone and why does protecting it matter?
The ozone layer in the stratosphere absorbs a portion of the radiation from the sun, preventing it from reaching the planet's surface. If people do not take strides to protect and preserve the ozone layer, its depletion can be catastrophic for life on earth. If increased ultraviolet (UV) radiation levels reach the earth’s surface, humans may experience a spike in skin cancers, vision problems, immunodeficiencies, and more. The environment can also be negatively impacted by this UV radiation with changes to various ecosystems, food chains, and life cycles.
What is World Ozone Day?
World Ozone Day takes place every year on September 16th and is dedicated to raising awareness about the ozone layer’s depletion and encouraging people to take action in preserving it. This particular date is symbolic of the day the Montreal Protocol was signed in 1987. President Ronald Reagan shared this statement in 1988, “The Montreal Protocol is a model of cooperation. It is a product of the recognition and international consensus that ozone depletion is a global problem, both in terms of its causes and its effects. The protocol is the result of an extraordinary process of scientific study, negotiations among representatives of the business and environmental communities, and international diplomacy. It is a monumental achievement.” The Montreal Protocol is a global agreement to protect the stratospheric ozone layer by phasing out the production and consumption of ozone-depleting substances (ODS) such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), halons, methyl bromide, carbon tetrachloride, hydrobromofluorocarbons, chlorobromomethane, and methyl chloroform.
How to celebrate World Ozone Day?
Why not celebrate this important awareness day by learning about the ozone layer itself? In addition to learning about the ozone layer, you can also observe the holiday by helping spread awareness on why it’s essential to preserve the ozone layer and our environment. We only have one planet, earth, so let’s protect it together.
How can we protect the ozone layer?
Using renewable and sustainable energy resources that do not emit dangerous gases into the air and atmosphere. Burning fossil fuels, powering manufacturing plants, and the excessive use of motor vehicles can all contribute to the depletion of the ozone layer. Thankfully, there are many alternative methods that we can adopt such as utilizing solar power instead of fossil fuels, relying on renewable energy resources and microgrids to power buildings, and driving energy efficient or electric vehicles. When these methods are not viable or available, we can also reduce our energy consumption, carpooling, taking public transportation, bicycling or walking, and shopping local.
For more information about helping to preserve the ozone layer by switching to solar, visit our website at https://shine.partners/get-solar/. Our solar professional will meet with you to conduct a thorough Solar Self-Check. We’ll estimate your energy needs based on your electricity consumption history and other factors. Then we’ll assess your roof and answer any questions about installing a solar energy system.
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