Climate & Environment
Stratospheric Ozone Depletion
Definition
Stratospheric ozone depletion is the thinning of the ozone layer — which absorbs harmful ultraviolet radiation — caused by ozone-depleting substances (ODS), principally CFCs, halons and related chemicals that release chlorine and bromine in the stratosphere. Its most dramatic expression is the Antarctic ozone hole. The Montreal Protocol (1987) phased out ODS with universal ratification; the ozone layer is recovering and is projected to return to 1980 levels around mid-century.
References
This reference provides supporting context for how “Stratospheric Ozone Depletion” is defined and used.
Source imported for editorial provenance.
Overview
How it is used
The case structures lessons for climate and plastics negotiations, the operation of the Multilateral Fund, and ongoing enforcement against illegal ODS production.
Why it matters
Stratospheric ozone depletion is sustainability's existence proof: a planetary boundary breach identified, governed and reversed.