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International Day for the preservation of the Ozone layer

Written by
Dr Ayub Macharia

The day is marked every 16th September. The ozone layer is an invisible fragile shield of gas in the atmosphere that protects the earth from harmful ultra violet rays of the sun. The layer is very sensitive and has started to degenerate due to the current increase in emission of ozone depleting substance such as chrolo floro carbons (CFC’S) used all over the world.

The day commemorates the signing of the Montréal protocol on 16th September 1987.The signatories (governments) agreed to cooperate to phase out the use of ozone-depleting substances. On this day governments deliberate on progress made in reducing the use and emission of ozone – depleting chemicals. On this day we reaffirm the value of the ozone layer as a natural shield around us.

Suggested activities

  • Hold a debate on what ozone layer is. Identify how activities by the local community could be contributing to its depletion.
  • Develop a poster to illustrate the links between CFCs and the ozone layer.
  • Compose songs, drama, poems, and dances about the ozone layer.
  • Form an ozone layer club to address human activities at school and community level which affects the ozone layer.
  • Address issues such as the use of polythene bags and plastics. Polythene bags burn and release ozone depleting gases to the atmosphere. Promote the use of alternatives such as sisal woven baskets (“ciondos)
  • Write an essay or summary notes on how you celebrated the International day for preservation of the ozone layer. Publicize your success on this blog.

For further Information, contact:

Kenya Ozone Office of the Ministry of Environment, Water and Natural Resources (http://www.environment.go.ke)

 

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Symbolic Dates

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