The restoration of the ozone layer protects us from UV rays, but it could also drive more global warming than previously thought, challenging assumptions about climate processes. Source: Shutterstock
According to research from the University of Reading (UK), between 2015 and 2050, the ozone layer will be responsible for trapping an additional 0.27 watts per square meter (W/m²) of energy. This is equivalent to an additional amount of heat trapped on every square meter of the Earth's surface. By mid-century, ozone is predicted to be second only to carbon dioxide - which traps about 1.75 W/m² - as a warming agent.
“Countries are on the right track by continuing to ban CFCs and HCFCs, which are chemicals that damage the ozone layer,” said lead author Professor Bill Collins. “However, while this has helped the ozone layer recover, we found that the recovery has contributed to more global warming than originally thought. Air pollution from vehicles, factories and power plants also increases ground-level ozone, which is harmful to health and contributes to global warming.”
The study, published Aug. 21 in the journal Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics, used computer models to simulate atmospheric changes by mid-century. The simulations were based on a scenario where air pollution was controlled at low levels, while CFCs and HCFCs were phased out under the 1987 Montreal Protocol.
The results show that phasing out CFCs and HCFCs — which were intended to protect the ozone layer — has had fewer climate benefits than previously thought. Although these gases are global warming agents, as the ozone layer recovers, it will generate more heat, almost canceling out the climate benefits of phasing out CFCs and HCFCs.
Even if countries take steps to reduce air pollution, the ozone layer will continue to recover for decades, creating an inevitable warming. However, scientists stress that protecting the ozone layer is still crucial to preventing skin cancer and protecting human, animal and plant health from dangerous ultraviolet radiation.
The study also suggests that global climate change response policies need to be updated soon to take into account the stronger warming impact of ozone in the future.
Source: https://doanhnghiepvn.vn/cong-nghe/tang-ozone-dang-hoi-phuc-co-the-khien-hien-tuong-nong-len-toan-cau-tang-them-40/20250829054042878
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