CBSE · Class 10 · Science · Our EnvironmentWhy is ozone layer depletion a cause of concern? State the main reason for its depletion.

Ozone layer depletion is a major global concern because the stratospheric ozone layer acts as a protective shield around the Earth by absorbing harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiations coming from the sun. If this layer gets depleted, dangerous UV rays directly reach the Earth's surface, causing severe health hazards in human beings and animals, including skin cancers, cataracts, weakening of the immune system, destruction of phytoplankton, and reduction in agricultural crop yields. The primary chemical responsible for the depletion of the ozone layer is chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), which are widely utilized in refrigerators, air conditioners, and aerosol spray propellants.