World Ozone Day, observed every year on September 16, marks the global commitment to safeguard the ozone layer. The year 2025 is significant as it celebrates the 40th anniversary of the Vienna Convention (1985), the foundation of international cooperation on ozone protection. The stratospheric ozone layer acts as Earth’s sunscreen, filtering harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation and ensuring the survival of humans, ecosystems, and agriculture. While remarkable progress has been made, new challenges such as ground-level ozone pollution continue to threaten health, food security, and climate stability.
Vienna Convention (1985): Established international cooperation to protect the ozone layer.
Montreal Protocol (1987): Landmark treaty that phased out ozone-depleting substances (ODS) such as CFCs, halons, and carbon tetrachloride.
India’s Role: Since joining in 1992, India has eliminated several harmful chemicals and aims to phase out Hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) completely by 2024.
Acts as a protective shield against harmful UV rays.
Phasedown of ODS through coordinated global action has set an example of science-led diplomacy.
India’s Ozone Cell under the Ministry of Environment has been central in coordinating policies, industries, and international cooperation.
Nature: Unlike protective stratospheric ozone, ground-level ozone is harmful.
Formation: Created by chemical reactions between nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), intensified by sunlight and heat.
Health Risks: Causes respiratory illness, asthma, and other health complications.
Agriculture: Damages crops such as wheat and rice, reducing yield and quality.
Urban Impact: India’s dense population, vehicular emissions, and industrial activities intensify risks.
India Cooling Action Plan (ICAP): Promotes sustainable cooling, energy efficiency, and renewable energy.
Urban Strategies:
Regulation: Stricter emission norms and effective monitoring systems.
Global Cooperation: Extending lessons from the Montreal Protocol to surface ozone pollution through innovation and accountability.
Expand Clean Energy Use: Rapid transition to renewable sources.
Urban Innovation: Adoption of resilient city planning and green infrastructure.
Agricultural Safeguards: Research and development of ozone-resistant crops.
Global Leadership: India must demonstrate science-backed policies and cooperation for long-term planetary health.
The ozone layer’s recovery under the Montreal Protocol highlights the power of global cooperation. While stratospheric ozone is being successfully protected, surface ozone pollution is emerging as a serious challenge, especially for vulnerable nations like India. By integrating clean energy, enforcing strict emission norms, and promoting sustainable urban planning, India can protect public health, secure food systems, and reinforce its role as a global environmental leader.
1. Why is the ozone layer important?
It acts as a natural shield against UV rays, protecting life on Earth.
2. What has India achieved under the Montreal Protocol?
India phased out CFCs, halons, and carbon tetrachloride, and is close to eliminating HCFCs by 2024.
3. How is ground-level ozone different from stratospheric ozone?
Stratospheric ozone protects life, while surface ozone is a harmful pollutant formed through chemical reactions in the lower atmosphere.
4. How does surface ozone affect agriculture?
It reduces crop yield and quality, particularly in wheat and rice, worsening food insecurity.
5. What policies are being used to tackle ozone pollution in India?
ICAP, stricter emission norms, promotion of electric vehicles, renewable energy adoption, and cleaner urban planning.
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