Date
Tuesday
Sep
16

September 16

International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer

Join the world in protecting our planet on International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer - let's all work together to keep our Earth healthy!

Yearly Date
September 16
Type
Day
Category
Cause

Introduction

On September 16, we celebrate International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer! This day was created in 1994 to recognize and commemorate the date that the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer came into force. Since then, this international agreement has been a major success in protecting our planet's ozone layer. We can be proud of what has been accomplished thanks to collective global action, and use this day as an opportunity to continue advocating for more protection of the ozone layer.

International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer Timeline

1974
Ozone Depletion Discovery
Scientists Mario Molina and Sherwood Rowland publish their research on the potential for chemical depletion of the ozone layer by human-made CFCs.
1985
Vienna Convention
The Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer is adopted, creating a framework for international cooperation to protect the ozone layer.
1987
Montreal Protocol
The Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer is agreed upon, which serves as an international treaty for phasing out the production of numerous substances responsible for ozone depletion.
1994
International Day Establishment
The United Nations General Assembly proclaims September 16th as the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer.
2010
Complete CFC Phase-Out
Complete phase-out of CFCs achieved in all countries as mandated by the Montreal Protocol.
2020
Ozone Hole Shrinkage
NASA and NOAA researchers report the smallest annual ozone hole on record, demonstrating the continued healing of the ozone layer.

How to Celebrate International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer

1

Grow an ozone-friendly garden

Plant some trees, flowers and other vegetation that will help to reduce the amount of ozone-depleting chemicals in the atmosphere. Make sure to use natural fertilizers and pesticides, compost your kitchen scraps, and avoid using any products that contain chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs).

2

Reduce your energy consumption

By reducing energy consumption, you can help conserve the ozone layer. This includes turning off lights when you’re not in the room, unplugging unused electronics, and using energy efficient appliances.

3

Recycle

Recycling helps to reduce the amount of energy and resources needed to produce new products. It also reduces the amount of waste that is sent to landfills, which can emit harmful gases into the atmosphere.

4

Educate yourself

There are lots of ways to learn more about the ozone layer and how you can help protect it. Read up on the environmental impacts of ozone depletion, attend a local seminar or workshop, or even volunteer with an organization that focuses on preserving the ozone layer.

5

Spread awareness

Sharing information about the ozone layer and its importance is key to preserving it. Talk to your friends and family about what you’ve learned and encourage them to join you in celebrating International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer.

Why International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer is Important

A

Protecting the ozone layer is essential for our survival

The ozone layer is a protective shield around Earth that blocks out harmful ultraviolet radiation from the sun. Without it, life on our planet would be unsustainable. This makes preserving the ozone layer a crucial task that must not be forgotten.

B

Reducing emissions helps protect the ozone layer

Many pollutants, such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), are known to damage the ozone layer. Reducing emissions of these pollutants and using more sustainable energy sources can slow down or even reverse the damage being done to the ozone layer.

C

Preserving the ozone helps ensure food security

Ozone depletion causes an increase in ultraviolet radiation which can have devastating effects on crops and animals. The decrease in crop yields due to UV damage may lead to decreased access to food or rising prices, making it harder for people to afford sustenance.

International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
Sep 15
Friday
2024
Sep 15
Sunday
2025
Sep 15
Monday
2026
Sep 15
Tuesday
2027
Sep 15
Wednesday