In simple terms
The stratospheric ozone layer absorbs much of the Sun’s harmful ultraviolet radiation.
Why it matters
Ozone depletion increases UV exposure for people, crops and ecosystems. Global action under the Montreal Protocol has reduced ozone-depleting substances and enabled recovery.
What puts pressure on it?
- Historically: CFCs, halons and other ozone-depleting substances
- Continued emissions from remaining or improperly managed sources
How scientists track it
- Stratospheric ozone concentration
What helps
- Maintain global controls on ozone-depleting substances
- Recover and safely manage refrigerants
- Choose climate-friendly cooling technologies
Planetary Boundaries are global guardrails. They are not personal quotas, and individual actions alone cannot restore them. Policy, infrastructure, business and collective change matter alongside household choices.