Health and environmental change - Ozone depletion

What are the causes of ozone depletion?

• Increased greenhouse gases in atmosphere.

What is the problem in greenhouse gases causing ozone depletion?

Greenhouse gases continue to be emitted into the atmosphere, and unlike CFCs, there is no legally binding global agreement forcing alternatives to burning carbon.

What was signed in 2016?

The Paris Agreement signed by 174 countries.

What impact does global warming have on populations?

May bring some localised benefits, such as fewer winter deaths in temperate climates and gains in food production, but overall health impacts likely to be negative and disproportionately impact populations of LDEs.

Where did ozone depletion significantly affect in 1985?

A hole in the ozone layer discovered over Antarctica.

Realisation of this protocol led to Madrid Protocol (1987) banning CFCs responsible.

What are CFCs?

Chloroflourocarbons.

What 2 health impacts can ozone depletion lead to?

• Skin cancer.

• Cataracts.

How does ozone depletion cause cataracts?

Can increase risk of cataracts.

What are cataracts?

An inflammation of the eye and usually develop slowly.

Who are cataracts more common in?

Older people and, if left untreated, can lead to permanent blindness.

How many people become blind from cataracts annually?

WHO estimates some 12 - 15 million people worldwide become blind from cataracts annually.

How does ozone depletion lead to skin cancer?

Depletion of stratospheric ozone layer by CFCs has led to increased solar UV radiation at the surface of the Earth. Increases risk of skin cancer.

How common is skin cancer due to ozone depletion?

1 in every 3 cancers diagnosed worldwide is skin cancer (non-melanoma) and is the most common form in the UK.

What are the reasons why skin cancer is so common?

• Exposure to UV causes skin cancer.

• Outdoor working - exposure to sun.

• Being fair-skinned.

• Age and family history.