"It has been four decades since scientists discovered the growing hole in Earth's ozone layer. But a promising new study has revealed that this protective shield - around 20 miles above our planet's surface - could be well on its way to recovery. Experts from the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) say that, compared to previous years, total stratospheric ozone cover was higher over much of the globe in 2024. What's more, the ozone hole that appears over Antarctica every spring was well below the 1990-2020 average."
"'The ozone layer is healing,' said Antonio Guterres, the United Nations Secretary-General. 'This achievement reminds us that when nations heed the warnings of science, progress is possible.' If progress continues at the current pace, the ozone layer could soon recover to its 1980 values (before the appearance of the ozone hole). The experts predict that a full recovery could take place by around 2066 over the Antarctic, by 2045 over the Arctic, and by 2040 for the rest of the world."
"Back in the 1970s, scientists first raised concerns about the effect of man-made chemicals known as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) on the ozone layer. Concerningly, CFCs were used in a range of products, including refrigeration, air conditioning, firefighting foam, and even hairspray. An international treaty called the Montreal Protocol was signed in 1987, leading to the phase-out of over 99 per cent of these ozone-depleting chemicals."
Total stratospheric ozone cover was higher over much of the globe in 2024, with the Antarctic ozone hole well below the 1990–2020 average. Projections indicate potential recovery to 1980 values by about 2066 over Antarctica, by 2045 over the Arctic, and by 2040 for the rest of the world if current progress continues. The ozone layer filters harmful UV-B radiation, protecting humans, animals, and plants from increased risks of skin cancer, cataracts, and ecosystem damage. Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) caused major depletion, and the Montreal Protocol phased out over 99% of these chemicals. Global warming has slowed recovery by cooling the ozone layer slightly.
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