The Earth’s protective ozone layer is healing and is expected to return to 1980s levels by the middle of this century, according to a new report from the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO). The report also noted that the 2024 Antarctic ozone hole is smaller compared to the past few years.

The WMO Ozone Bulletin 2024 explained that lower ozone depletion this year was partly due to natural atmospheric conditions. However, it stressed that the long-term recovery is the result of global action taken by countries over the last four decades.

The bulletin was released on World Ozone Day, which this year also marked the 40th anniversary of the Vienna Convention. This convention laid the foundation for international cooperation to protect the ozone layer.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said, "Forty years ago, nations came together to take the first step in protecting the ozone layer, guided by science, united in action."

He added, "The Vienna Convention and its Montreal Protocol became a landmark of multilateral success. Today, the ozone layer is healing. This achievement reminds us that when nations heed the warnings of science, progress is possible."

The Montreal Protocol has been a key part of this success. It phased out more than 99 per cent of harmful ozone-depleting substances that were once widely used in refrigeration, air conditioning, firefighting foam, and even hairspray. Because of this action, the ozone layer is projected to recover to its 1980s condition by mid-century. This recovery is expected to reduce health risks like skin cancer and cataracts, as well as protect ecosystems.

WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo said, "The theme for World Ozone Day is 'From Science to Global Action'. It mirrors WMO's 75th anniversary slogan, 'Science for Action'. This is no coincidence."

Matt Tully, Chair of WMO's Scientific Advisory Group on Ozone and Solar UV Radiation, also cautioned that the work must continue. He said, "Despite the great success of the Montreal Protocol in the intervening decades, this work is not yet finished, and there remains an essential need for the world to continue careful systematic monitoring of both stratospheric ozone and of ozone-depleting substances and their replacements."

According to WMO data, the 2024 Antarctic ozone hole peaked at 46.1 million tonnes on September 29, which is smaller than the large holes recorded between 2020 and 2023. The depletion started later this year, and the recovery was quicker.

The bulletin concluded, "This persistent later onset has been identified as a robust indication of initial recovery of the Antarctic ozone hole."

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