The ozone layer is found in the troposphere, and it protects the earth from harmful UV rays. CFC’s, halons and similar substances destroy the ozone layer, resulting in an increase of the intensity of short wave UV rays which are dangerous for humans, animals and plants.
Ever since the depletion of the ozone layer was discovered at the beginning of the 1970’s, two international treaties were signed under the patronage of the programme for the environment of the United Nations: the Vienna Treaty for the Protection of the Ozone Layer (1985) and the Montreal Treaty on harmful substances for the ozone layer (1987). In a first step, these treaties allowed to reduce the production and use of ozone harming substances by more than 80%.
Despite the success, the hole in the ozone layer is still a threat. In order to further enforce the deadlines for the elimination of dangerous substances and their replacement by other substances, the European Union has implemented a new Directive (EU 1005/2009) on 16/09/2009, which is exemplary for all industrial countries.
The Directive contains prohibitions and restrictions regarding the production, import, export and use of substances and groups of substances which lead to a decrease of the ozone layer. Luxembourg is among the first countries to implement this Directive in the national legislation.
Information and practical hints are available from the SDK on how you as a private consumer or the person responsible within your company can contribute to the protection of the ozone layer.
