International Ozone Day on September 16

BANGALORE: Even as the world celebrates International Ozone Day every year on September 16, to generate awareness about ozone protection, the rigorous depletion of ozone layer still continues to be a major concern among environmentalists.The global theme for Ozone Day 2011 is ‘HCFC Phase-out: a Unique Opportunity’. With the Montreal Protocol, the entire globe agreed to accelerate the phase-out of production and consumption of hydro chlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), but still countries like India has failed to take serious step towards its implementation, says noted environmentalist Yellapa Reddy.NASA has discovered vast holes in the ozone layer over Antarctica and the Arctic and this will also have its effect in India. Reddy said, “During the rotation of the earth there occurs planetary change and this ozone hole, when faces the peninsula India will have a serious impact especially on Southern India, compared to other parts of the country.The ultra violet radiation thus released can cause skin cancer and will also affect the biodiversity and agricultural production.”“The ban of obsolete technology emitting chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) should strongly be implemented in India. The CFCs when released into the atmosphere goes to the stratosphere and remains there for decades. Especially items like air conditioners and refrigerators which uses chlorine should be used wisely,” he added.The problem gets worse when these refrigerators are discarded. He said, “The Pollution Control Board and the Environment Department should put a check and take strict action against the violators.”  Meanwhile, Harish Bhatt, Biodiversity Expert also voices similar opinion. He said, “Depletion of the ozone layer will be a major problem in the long run. Burning of carbon, pollutants, especially CFCs emitted from air conditioners,  refrigerators, burning of fossil fuel are major contributors.”“Putting a complete ban on the usage of refrigerators and air conditioners and burning of carbon is however not possible. But at least attempt can be made to regulate its usage,” he added.