But when averaged out for 30 days, this is not the largest hole ever. As on October 2, 2015, the Antarctic ozone hole is spread over an area of 28.2 million km. Record sizes were observed in 2000 (29.8 million km) and 2006 (29.6 million km).
The ozone layer is that part of the Earth’s atmosphere which absorbs most of the Sun’s potentially harmful ultraviolet radiation. Excessive exposure to UV radiation is known to cause most cancers and even cataracts. Ozone depletion also leads to crop damage and adversely affects our body's overall immunity.
The Antarctic ozone hole was discovered in the late 1970s. Extensive research work in this regard led to the conclusion that chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) used in refrigerators and aerosol sprays (in the past) were responsible for the depletion of the ozone layer.
NOAA’s balloon-borne instruments have measured an almost 100 percent depletion in the ozone layer above the South Pole Station in Antarctica. Experts believe that recovery of the layer above the southern hemisphere will take at least four to six decades. This will restore the layer to its pre-80s condition.
On September 16, 1987, scientists, industry giants, and policy makers agreed to regulate the outflow of CFCs. The Montreal Protocol was a historic landmark in reversing the depletion of ozone depletion. Since then, several scientific and political advancements have set effectual change into motion. This change, if all goes well, will be visible by 2070.
(Featured Image Credit: conserveenergyfuture.com)