Ozone depletion has an extremely adverse impact on human health and well-being. The thinning layer of ozone allows the harmful ultraviolet radiation of the sun to penetrate through the planet's atmosphere, exposing us to a large number of risks. Ozone depletion has led to increased incidence of melanoma, solar burns, eye-problems and other health issues. Crops and animals are also similarly affected. 

Even though we are still don't know the degree of damage we have caused to this invaluable resource, we have taken some steps to mitigate it. The most significant step we have taken so far was the signing and ratification of the 1987 Montreal Protocol. Simply put, this protocol signified a global agreement to freeze freon production at a safer level. More than thirty years on, we can observe many positive impacts of this crucial step. The atmosphere has begun to show some recovery. Even so, the chemical effects are still persisting, which clearly shows how harmful our actions were to the Earth.

16th September is the International Day for Preservation of the Ozone Layer. On this day, there are worldwide events to commemorate the momentous step we took to solve this problem. We also try and spread awareness about it.

Keeping in mind that the photochemical effects of ozone depletion still linger, we should take affirmative steps to keep ourselves safe from UV radiation by reducing direct exposure to the sun.

We can also contribute to safeguarding our planet's health by always buying CFC-free, whether it is aerosols, refrigerators, insulating and packing material etc. We should also maintain our fridge and air conditioner to avoid chemical leaks. 

It is important that we discuss and debate these issues on this September 16. Our shared ozone layer is our shared responsibility.