Depletion of the ozone layer

Like a shell, the stratosphere's ozone layer shields Earth from ultraviolet radiation that would otherwise be fatal to biological life. Ozone is a basic molecule made up of three oxygen atoms. Although the presence of this substance enables the growth and flourishing of living organisms, at the same time, it is a poisonous gas that causes painful irritation and inflammation of the respiratory system. But what is known as the ozone layer, the major volume of ozone is located 25-30 km above the surface of the Earth. As a protective shield, this layer protects plants, animals, and humans from the sun's ultraviolet radiation and prevents its deadly wavelengths from hitting the surface of the Earth. The radiation absorbed in these wavelengths is the cause of sunburn, skin cancer by modifying DNA, cataracts, and can weaken the human immune system and reduce its resistance. According to studies by the United Nations Environment Program, a 10% decrease in the amount of ozone in the atmosphere can cause an increase in skin cancers by 26%. In addition, ultraviolet rays can slow down the growth of plants and damage the genetic structure of living organisms.