Record depletion of arctic ozone

Exceptionally strong cold in the higher atmosphere has in recent weeks led to the loss of about half of the stratospheric ozone. The cold as such is a natural condition, but it inforces processes that lead to the destruction of ozone where man-made “ozone killers” such as FCKWs are involved. This includes substance that have been banned for years, as they remain in the atmosphere for a long time before they are finally broken down.

As the polar air mixes with air masses in lower latitudes, scientists recommend to pay special attention to sun protection against UV radiation during the coming spring.

Source: Svalbard Science Forum