What Are Five Things That Deplete the Ozone Layer?

The ozone layer, which is located in the stratosphere six miles above the earth's surface, is critical to human existence because it protects people from the damaging effects of ultraviolet rays released by the sun. In the 1970s, research proved that chemicals produced in domestic and commercial activities lead to ozone layer depletion. These ozone-depleting substances (ODS) include chlorofluorocarbons, methyl bromide, halon compounds and methyl chloroform.

Chlorofluorocarbons

• Chlorofluorocarbon (CFC), a compound that contains chlorine, fluorine and carbon, is a byproduct of chemicals used in manufacturing activities, such as industrial solvents, electronic cleaners and refrigerants. When it reaches the stratosphere, the compound separates into simpler substances, discharging chlorine atoms, resulting in depletion of the ozone layer.

Hydrochlorofluorocarbons

• Hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC), a compound containing hydrogen, chlorine, fluorine and carbon, is used in industry as an alternative to CFC. Like CFC, HCFC also contain chlorine which, upon reaching the stratosphere, produces chlorine atoms, consequently depleting the ozone layer. The impact of HCFC on the ozone layer is, however, less than that of CFC.

Methyl Bromide

• Methyl bromide (MeBr) can either be a synthetic chemical compound or a natural compound released by oceanic algae. Its original use was as a potent pesticide. Ultraviolet radiation breaks it down as it reaches the stratosphere, causing depletion of the ozone layer. Aside from being an environmental hazard, it can also be harmful to human health. In response to the Montreal Protocol, methyl bromide has been phased out for the most part since 2005.

Halon

• A halon compound contains fluorine and carbon as well as bromine. It is commonly used as a fire-extinguishing agent. Bromine causes more damage to the ozone layer than chlorine.

Methyl Chloroform

• Methyl chloroform (MCF) is a synthetic chemical compound used in several industrial activities as an adhesive and solvent as well as in waste treatment. It is also found in several consumer products, such as paints and cleaning materials. Methyl chloroform is also directly hazardous to human health, affecting the eyes, liver, heart, lungs and skin.