In the mid 1970's scientist discovered chlorine produced in the atmosphere by CFC's, could possibly harm or destroy the ozone. One Chlorine atom can destroy over 100,000 ozone molecules. (www.greenpeace.org) Can natural sources and also be the blame for ozone depletion? Chlorine from swimming pools, industrial plants, sea salt, and volcanoes do not reach the stratosphere. (www.factmonster.com) Researchers have not discovery any link with those items causing any problems with the ozone. .
In the mid 1980's our worst nightmare was discovered. Scientist with the British Antarctica Survey discovered a really large hole in the ozone over the Antarctica Continent, exposing them extremely large amounts of ultra violet radiation. Smaller ozone depletions and also been spotted over larger populated areas also. .
The Effects.
The reduction in ozone levels means the increase of ultra-violet radiation. UV radiation can cause various problems to all forms of life on the earth. Today, we are already plagued with the concerns of: health issues, plant life, marine life etc . Ultra-violet radiation causes many forms malignant and non-malignant skin cancers, with the majority being from over-exposure to the sun. The sun kills skin cells, and damages DNA, which causes permanent changes in the skin, like wrinkles. .
Eye damage can also result from too many ultra-violet rays. It causes eye disease, sunburn of the cornea, and is linked to cataract. (www.Greenpeace.org) People tend to think sunglasses are for fashion, but it is very important to wear, and protect your eyes, as well as using sun screens to protect your skin. .
Depletion of ozone could permanently lead to cancer in animals and humans, a disruption of plant life that could affect harvests, and it could also harm the food chain in our oceans and seas, wrecking havoc on our lives. Our life on earth is maintained by each and everything living off of each other, if the cycle is broken, everything can be destroyed.