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September 16 - World Ozone Day
World Ozone Day is celebrated annually on September 16. Also known as the United Nations' (UN) International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer, the day marks the date of the signing of the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer in 1987. After the world found out about depletion of certain area in the ozone layer, representatives from 24 countries met in Montreal in 1984. They expressed their deep concern over depleting ozone layer and decided it’s time, concrete steps need to be taken to stop destruction of ozone layer. That’s how “Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer” came into existence. Thereafter in 1994, United Nations General Assembly declared September 16 to be the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer. First celebrated on September 16, 1995, the day brings back the focus on the grave issue of depleting ozone layer.
World Ozone Day provides us an opportunity to focus attention and action at the global, regional and national levels on the protection of the ozone layer. UN encourages all the nations to take concrete actions in accordance with the objectives and goals of the Montreal Protocol and its Amendment. The ozone layer plays a very important role in protecting human health and the environment. Several events and activities are organized on this day.
Topics related to ozone layer, its depletion and climate change etc are covered through classroom activities by hundreds of educators all through the world. UN Environment Programme (UNEP)’s educational packages are also used by the teachers to raise awareness about ozone layer. People are informed of dangers lurking ahead and how we can contribute to our environment. Ozone friendly products are promoted in different parts of the world. UNEP’s public awareness posters are distributed to the masses. Those who have worked hard to protect the ozone layer of the earth are awarded for their efforts.
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