International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer 2021: Know the History and other details

Every year, September 16 is observed dedicatedly towards a cause which holds much importance in today’s period. In 1987, almost every country signed a deal called Montreal Protocol on Substances that deplete the ozone layer. However, in 1994, the UN General Assembly proclaimed this day to be observed as the International Day for the Prevention of the Ozone Layer. 

History and Significance of the day 

As a deal, the Montreal Protocol was for countries around the globe to take measures against the existence of all ozone-depleting substances such as aerosols, chlorofluorocarbon, halons, etc. These substances are widely used for cooling and refrigeration purposes. The usage of such substances have resulted in developing a hole in the ozone layers in Antarctica.

First discovered in 1970, the hole has led to create an acute levels of global warming in the past 20 years. However, in January 2021, as per the World Meteorological Organization, the hole finally closed with the collective efforts of the entire world.

Theme of the day for 2021 

For 2021, the theme for the International Day for the Prevention of the Ozone Layer is 'Montreal Protocol – Keeping us, our food, and vaccines cool.' The theme is decided to highlight the long-term effects of the 35-year-old protocol, the first ever to be ratified by all the 197 members of the United Nations.