Zimpapers Logo

Nqobile Tshili, [email protected]

ZIMBABWE on Monday joined the rest of the world in commemorating the World Ozone Day which global leaders set aside to mark efforts to replenish the depleting ozone layer with the aim of reducing risks of contracting cancer among other diseases.

The day is commemorated annually on September 16 following the September 16 1987 Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer.

The Montreal Protocol aims to gradually reduce and eventually eliminate the production and use of man-made chemicals that deplete the ozone layer.

In a statement, Environment, Climate and Wildlife Minister Dr Sithembiso Nyoni said Zimbabwe is a signatory of the United Nations General Assembly proclamation that September 16 should be preserved as the International Day for the preservation of the ozone layer.

She said the depletion of the ozone layer increases the chances of humans contracting cancer while reducing crop yield.

“The stratospheric ozone layer acts as a shield which protects life on earth from dangerous Ultra-Violet (UV) radiation from the sun and allowing only sufficient UV doses that are needed for the sustenance of life for human beings, plants and animals. Man-made chemicals used mostly in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning (RAC) are depleting this protective ozone layer,” she said.

“Depletion of this vital protective shield causes eye cataracts, skin cancers and suppresses the immune system in human beings. Ozone layer depletion also reduces crop yields, degrades synthetic materials and affects aquatic organisms.”

She said the Government of Zimbabwe, being a party to the Montreal Protocol, therefore joins the rest of the World in commemorating this important day.
-@nqotshili