World Ozone Day

World Ozone Day is dedicated to protecting the Earth’s ozone layer and is observed on September 16th. This holiday was officially established by the UN General Assembly in 1994.

History

The ozone layer is a thin band of gas in the atmosphere. Without it—and without the atmosphere itself—life on Earth would be impossible. This protective layer absorbs excess solar radiation, maintaining the temperature balance required for life.

During the era of rapid industrialization, little attention was paid to environmental concerns, as the primary focus was on industrial development. Research into the ozone layer began only in the second half of the 20th century. By the 1970s, scientists discovered that the ozone layer was thinning and forming so-called “ozone holes,” particularly over the South and North Poles. The main culprit was industrial gases, especially refrigerants used in refrigerators and industrial cooling systems.

In 1985, a convention was signed with 28 countries agreeing to work together to find a solution to the ozone layer crisis. Three years later, a list of hazardous substances was released, and phasing them out helped prevent further destruction of the ozone layer.

Interesting Facts

• If compressed to sea-level pressure, the ozone layer would be only a few centimeters thick.
• Ozone has a fresh scent—you can smell it after a thunderstorm.
• If the ozone layer suddenly disappeared, humanity would face mass extinction due to deadly levels of ultraviolet radiation.

How to Take Part

World Ozone Day is a great opportunity to learn more about the planet’s ozone layer. Attend lectures, which are often held at universities and scientific centers, or support environmental organizations with a donation.

Share a social media post about this day and highlight the importance of protecting the environment, because Earth is our shared home.

When is World Ozone Day in 2025?

World Ozone Day is observed on September 16 each year.

Observations