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Protect the Ozone Layer: SDG 13 for a sustainable future
The ozone layer is one of the “invisible” protections on planet Earth. It plays an essential role in absorbing ultraviolet rays emitted by the sun, protecting us from damage caused by excessive exposure to them. However, over the decades, this layer has been threatened by human activity, mainly the emission of harmful gases such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs).
According to the United Nations (2023), “the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, adopted by all United Nations Member States in 2015, and which officially came into force in 2016, defines the priorities and aspirations of global sustainable development for 2030 and seeks to mobilize global efforts around a set of common objectives and targets”, and “the SDGs define global priorities and aspirations for 2030 in areas that affect the quality of life of all citizens of the world and those who are yet to come over".
Protecting the ozone layer is intrinsically linked to the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 13 (SDG 13), which seeks to combat climate change. But why is this so important these days?
Firstly, it is important to understand how the ozone layer and SDG 13 are interconnected. Reducing gas emissions, such as CFCs, which contribute to the greenhouse effect and damage the ozone layer, is one of the main objectives of this SDG. By reducing these emissions, we protect the ozone layer, but we also limit global warming and promote environmental sustainability.
In a world increasingly aware of climate change and its impacts, protecting the ozone layer is more relevant than ever. Excessive exposure to ultraviolet rays due to the depletion of the ozone layer is associated with a number of health problems, such as skin cancer, cataracts and a weakened immune system. Furthermore, damage to the ozone layer has negative impacts on agriculture and biodiversity.
However, global actions that comply with the Montreal Protocol, an international agreement to protect the ozone layer, have demonstrated positive results. The ban on CFCs and the adoption of more sustainable technologies in refrigeration systems and aerosols are contributing to the gradual recovery of the ozone layer.
But the challenge is far from over. Public awareness plays a crucial role in maintaining this protection. It is essential to educate people about the importance of the ozone layer and how individual and collective actions can contribute to its preservation. This not only protects our health, but also helps meet global sustainability goals such as SDG 13.
In this way, Adentis is committed to promoting and raising awareness of this topic, and to acting in favor of protecting the ozone layer, as it has proven to be fundamental for the well-being of current and future generations.