Eco Watch | 3-minute read
Eco Watch | 3-minute read
An Ode to the Ozone
16 September, 2025 | By Eumij A. Mariano
As we perceive it, the planet wouldn't be able to withstand the relentless rays of the sun without the armor that floats above the horizon. This "thin border" is what is known as the ozone layer that safeguards the planet from the sun's detrimental rays.
On this World Ozone Day, let's take a moment to recognize this unseen protector that lies between us and the sun's fiercest rays along with recognizing that preserving it is also nurturing ourselves.
Although we hardly ever see it, this ozone layer is always there, shielding us, the trees, and the oceans from the devouring flame. This nearly weightless shield blocks the Sun's dangerous ultraviolet (UV) rays, avoiding crops and human health from being harmed. It is an invisible barrier, but without it, our daily life would be substantially more dangerous.
However, the downside is that our sky armor isn’t indestructible. This layer has been undermined by long term environmental degradation thereby enabling more of the harmful rays to pass through. Chemicals like chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), which are extensively utilized in aerosols and industrial fields, are being released into the atmosphere and depletes the ozone layer.
With this, the global efforts for this is to monitor human activities and prevent manmade chemicals from damaging the ozone layer. Each year, on September 16, the world commemorates World Ozone Day, highlighting the essence of preserving this invisible shield.
We can contribute to ozone conservation by planting trees, using energy-efficient technologies and non-toxic products. By doing these simple steps, we can help protect the shield that has been safeguarding us since then. Through collective action and sustainable solutions, we can prevent ozone layer depletion.