By Divya and Surbhi Bagdi
Ozone layer, also known as the Ozone shield, is a delicate layer surrounding the Earth’s atmosphere that absorbs most of the Sun’s ultraviolet rays which are harmful to all life forms on Earth. In view of its importance, September 16 is designated as the International Day For The Preservation Of The Ozone Layer by the United Nations General Assembly. The Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW) organised a webinar on the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer i.e., 16 September 2021. The theme of the session was ‘Celebrate Azadi ka Amrut Mahotsav – Ozone Day.’ The online event held on Zoom commenced at sharp 4:00 pm with the speakers, Himanshu Dixit and Kartik Ganesan addressing the audience. The event was joined by the students ranging from middle school to college students. MH Vatavaran volunteers and faculty members also attended this webinar.
The presentation began with Mr. Dixit introducing CEEW to the audience. The institute is one of the leading policy research institutes in Asia. The presentation went ahead with panellists introducing the Ozone layer and its characteristics to all. He then asked the audience a very basic question: “DO YOU WONDER WHY CRICKETERS PAINT THEIR FACES WHITE?”
After which he emphasized on the harmful impacts of UV radiations that can cause skin burn, cancer, harm to the retina and also weakening of the immune system. The speaker also correlated it with the current COVID-19 pandemic. Thus he put light on the importance of ozone layer preservation.
The event was an opportunity to celebrate small wins before we overcome bigger challenges that await humanity. The speakers took the discussion forward by enlightening the audience about the harmful effects of HFCs, CFCs, Methane and Nitrogen oxides. Discussion also delved into aspects of renewable energy. Mr. Himanshu further stated that 40 years ago, scientists had identified hole in the ozone layer. The matter was acknowledged at the UN and led to the signing of Montreal Protocol Agreement (1987) among the nation members of the UN to combat the same.
It was said that the assessment around the Arctic hole from 2011 suggests that our ozone is finally healing. But still there is a need to introspect and do our best to protect the ozone layer.
Presentation concluded with a powerful quote “But the fight is not over yet!” which gave the audience scope to continue to work towards the betterment of the mother earth. Consecutive to presentation was the Q&A session where participants were asked to write their questions for the speakers in the chat-box. The questions were put forth to the speakers and they answered them one by one very articulately. It was the most distinguished part of the event as the diverse audience formed a really interactive space. Brainstorming was encouraged by giving a platform to various solutions we could make. Most importantly, awareness was created about the small shifts we can make to produce a cleaner and healthier environment around us. Judicial use of electronic gadgets was taught and a lot more pointers of knowledge that the audience definitely took back with them after the event.
The event ended with the speakers thanking those who had joined in and turned the event into a successful one! The event was indeed an enriching experience.
In the light of International Day For The Preservation Of The Ozone Layer, MH Vatavaran - The Environment Society of Miranda House organized a Slogan cum Poster Making Competition on the theme Montreal Protocol - keeping us, our food and vaccines cool.
Beautifully summarised ❤️