Ozone Layer Protection: The Mission Goes On

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The DENR recently distributed ozone awareness kits to selected high school students in Manila to raise awareness about the ozone layer. This was part of the global celebration of the International Ozone Day last September which had the theme Ozone Layer Protection: The Mission Goes On. These efforts to partner with learning institutions are part of the country’s commitments under the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer, which was first ratified by 24 nations on September 16, 1987.

The Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone layer is an agreement among 196 countries to decrease and eventually eliminate the production and consumption of ODS (ozone depleting substances) such as chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) and hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC).

Ozone layer instructional readings have been around ever since I was in elementary (which was around the time that dinosaurs still roamed the earth). It would be nice to see a KAP (Knowledge, Attitude, Practices) research study on the IEC (Information Education Communication) materials on the students if it actually does achieve the effect it wants: to galvanize the youth to become green consumers and be active participants in the fight against the destruction of the environment.

For the meanwhile, here's an easy to do list for greenistas to help protect the ozone layer:

• Unplug electronics from the wall when not in use
• Replace incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent light bulbs
• Buy fresh organic (pesticide free) produce at your local farmer's market
• Use energy efficient appliances
• Avoid using aerosols and sprays (uh, hairspray anyone?) composed of chlorofluorocarbon (CFC)
• Keep your house aircon clean
• Dispose of old refrigerators and appliances properly
• Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Upcycle
• Carpool, go bike or walk instead of driving
• Plant! Start a backyard garden or join tree planting activities
• Ensure that your car's aircon does not have leaks
• Educate yourself and spread the word to other people about ozone depletion effects

For more information, interested readers can check out the Philippine Ozone Desk.