The ozone layer might reach 1980s levels by mid-century
The World Meteorological Organization reported that the Earth’s protective ozone layer is expected to return to 1980s levels by the middle of this century, noting that the 2024 Antarctic ozone hole is smaller than in recent years. The WMO Ozone Bulletin 2024 noted that this year’s reduced ozone depletion was partly attributed to natural atmospheric factors, while emphasizing that the long-term improvement is a testament to the effectiveness of global action.
“Forty years ago, nations came together to take the first step in protecting the ozone layer, guided by science, united in action,” said UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. “The Vienna Convention and its Montreal Protocol became a landmark of multilateral success.” Today, the ozone layer is healing. “This achievement reminds us that when nations heed the warnings of science, progress is possible,” he said. The Montreal Protocol has phased out over 99 percent of controlled ozone-depleting substances that were once commonly used in refrigeration, air conditioning, firefighting foam, and hairspray.
The WMO stated that the ozone layer is expected to recover to 1980s levels by mid-century, which will lower the risks of skin cancer, cataracts, and damage to ecosystems. “The theme for World Ozone Day is ‘From Science to Global Action.'” It reflects the WMO’s 75th anniversary slogan: Science for Action. “This is no coincidence,” said WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo. Matt Tully, stated: “Despite the great success of the Montreal Protocol in the intervening decades, this work is not yet finished, and there remains an essential need for the world to continue careful systematic monitoring of both stratospheric ozone and of ozone-depleting substances and their replacements.”
The WMO reported that total stratospheric ozone cover has increased compared to previous years. The 2024 Antarctic ozone hole reached a maximum ozone mass deficit of 46.1 million tonnes on September 29, which is smaller than the significant holes recorded from 2020 to 2023. The onset was gradual, marked by delayed depletion in September, succeeded by a swift recovery. “This persistent later onset has been identified as a robust indication of initial recovery of the Antarctic ozone hole,” the bulletin stated.
