THE ozone layer over the US had thinned to unprecedented and worrisome flimsiness during 1993, say scientists who had monitored sunlight at various ground sites over the year. Between January and April of last year, ozone concentration was 12.6 per cent below normal (New Scientist, Vol 142, No 1927).
What is worrying scientists is the ozone loss in the summer months -- when there is more sunlight to contend with and thus greater risk from skin cancer-causing ultraviolet (UV) radiation. The team from the University of Colorado and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration lab, both at Boulder, Colorado, says that the amount of UV radiation during summer months may have shot up to 17 per cent the normal.
We are a voice to you; you have been a support to us. Together we build journalism that is independent, credible and fearless. You can further help us by making a donation. This will mean a lot for our ability to bring you news, perspectives and analysis from the ground so that we can make change together.
Comments are moderated and will be published only after the site moderator’s approval. Please use a genuine email ID and provide your name. Selected comments may also be used in the ‘Letters’ section of the Down To Earth print edition.