Antarctic ozone hole reaches size not seen since 1990s
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Scientists at the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) reported that the ozone hole over Antarctica was exceptionally small in 2023, reaching a size comparable to levels seen in the early 1990s.
This improvement marks the second consecutive year with significantly lower extent and depth compared to the 1990 to 2010 average. The WMO attributes this positive change to the Montreal Protocol of 1987, an international agreement that progressively banned harmful substances like chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs).
WMO chief Celeste Saulo stated that the recovery of the ozone layer since 2000 demonstrates a successful environmental protection story, predicting its complete restoration within decades. The ozone layer is critical for shielding both people and the planet from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun, which can cause conditions like skin cancer. While the Antarctic ozone layer is recovering, the WMO also noted increased UV radiation in Europe.
Since the mid-1990s, certain parts of Europe have experienced up to a 20 percent increase in UV radiation, primarily due to fewer clouds and longer sunshine durations. The organization emphasized the importance of targeted and effective UV protection measures in response to this trend.
