Scientists observe the ozone layer hole above Antarctica shrinking: Is Earth recovering?

ecent findings show the Antarctic ozone hole this year is smaller and formed later than expected, raising questions about whether Earth is on the path to healing.

Curated by : Sheetal Kumari

September 18, 2024 / 11:40 IST

In the 1980s, scientists were shocked to find pollution had caused a large hole in Earth's protective ozone layer. (Representative Image: Canva)

In the 1980s, scientists were shocked to find pollution had caused a large hole in Earth's protective ozone layer. Now, after nearly four decades, researchers from the Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service (CAMS) have observed a reduction in the size of this hole, sparking hopes of the ozone layer's recovery. Recent findings show the Antarctic ozone hole this year is smaller and formed later than expected, raising questions about whether Earth is on the path to healing.

Ozone Hole: A Dangerous Legacy of Pollution

The British Antarctic Survey first discovered the vast ozone hole over the South Pole in 1985. This seasonal hole, which opens during Southern Hemisphere spring, allows harmful UV radiation to reach the Antarctic surface. As a result, wildlife like seals and penguins face the risk of sunburn due to increased radiation exposure. Typically, the ozone hole begins to form in mid-August and closes by November.

According to CAMS, this year's ozone hole has been slower to develop compared to previous years. The formation didn't start until September and remained smaller than usual throughout the season. CAMS predicts the hole will shrink faster in the coming months and could close entirely by December. These observations indicate a significant shift in the ozone layer's behaviour.

Factors Behind the Shrinking Ozone Hole

Laurence Rouil, director of CAMS, highlighted various factors influencing the ozone hole, from volcanic activity to climate change. However, Rouil emphasised that human-made ozone-depleting substances are the most significant cause. CAMS cautioned that a slower-forming ozone hole doesn’t necessarily mean the ozone layer is fully recovering, likening it to temporary weather changes that don’t reflect long-term climate trends.

This year's findings offer a glimmer of hope, but scientists stress that continued monitoring is essential to fully understand the ozone layer’s progress.