Ozone Layer Protection
The stratospheric ozone layer is Earth’s “sunscreen” – protecting living things from too much ultraviolet radiation from the sun. The emission of human-made ozone-depleting substances, commonly used in refrigeration and air conditioning, foam products, aerosols, solvents, and for fire suppression, has been damaging the ozone layer. But through domestic and international action to phaseout these substances, the ozone layer is healing and should fully recover by about 2065. This website addresses stratospheric ozone issues, including the science of ozone depletion, EPA's regulatory approach to protecting the ozone layer, and international action establishing a global framework for ozone layer protection.
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Background and Science
Learn about the science behind the ozone layer, ozone depletion, and health impacts of ozone loss.
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Regulatory Programs Under the Clean Air Act
Learn about how EPA regulates ozone-depleting substances under the Clean Air Act.
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Related Actions and Programs
Learn about related voluntary, educational, and outreach programs, as well as programs to address HFCs, commonly used substitutes for ODS.
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International Action
Learn about international agreements to protect the ozone layer.