As of recent, ozone-destroying chemical emissions, particularly the chlorofluorocarbons (CFC) class, have been increasing rather than decreasing as expected. This phenomenon has perplexed scientists as it has been observed as of recently and could have long-term implications for Earth’s atmosphere if left unchecked.
CFCs are essentially ozone-depleting chemical compounds that are mostly responsible for the ozone hole over the Antarctic and for large-scale climate change. In the late 1980s, the production of CFCs was largely banned in the Montreal Protocol, an international environment treaty, due to their profound effects on the ozone layer. In order to protect the environment and planet Earth from further environmental damage, countries agreed to phase out CFCs in chemical aerosols and their use in air conditioning and refrigeration systems. This regulation was hugely successful and observations over the past 20 years have reported decreasing levels of CFCs in the atmosphere.
Until recently, when researchers have detected an increase in CFCs once again. The trend has been described as “inexplicable” and the source of the emissions poses a great challenge to trace. It appears as if unprofitable and/or outdated industries that were bound by the Montreal Protocol may have been illegally draining out and releasing CFCs into the atmosphere. Some models suggest that the release could be from Asia and Eastern Europe with China being a “major suspect”.
Tracing the source of the emissions is an increasingly difficult task to carry out. Observation of the wind patterns have simply made scientists unable to cite the exact source of the emissions. Moreover, big contributors such as gas delivery and transport systems are also very difficult to trace and monitor as they have an incredibly large carbon footprint.
Intergovernmental action is paramount in order to properly monitor and take proper measures to counteract such emissions. If not dealt with soon, the ozone-destroying chemicals may create an ozone hole even larger than that observed over the Antarctic. Long-term effects, on the other hand, may be observed in the normal yearly climate variations on planet Earth.
The increase of the ozone-destroying chemical emissions is a serious issue that should not be taken lightly. Direct and tangible measures should be taken in order to ensure that proper monitoring occurs, and that any illegal activity is dealt with accordingly. Different countries should work together on an international scale in order to ensure that no further emissions are released. The long-term consequences of such emissions could potentially be devastating for Earth’s environment, and as a result, it is essential for governments to take appropriate action in order to prevent further damage.
