The ozone hole over Antarctica continues to shrink | Travel News

The Antarctic ozone hole in 2024 ranked as the seventh smallest since 1992, covering an area of 20 million square kilometers. This progress highlights the success of global efforts to phase out ozone-depleting substances, with scientists from NASA and NOAA projecting that the ozone layer could fully recover by 2066.

Positive Trends in Ozone Recovery

 

Measurements from NASA and NOAA confirm a significant reduction in the size of the Antarctic ozone hole compared to the early 2000s. Between September 7 and October 13—when ozone depletion peaks—the 2024 ozone hole was among the smallest recorded since recovery efforts began in 1992, according to NASA.

The Montreal Protocol, signed in 1987, has played a crucial role in reducing emissions of ozone-depleting chemicals like CFCs. This landmark agreement committed nations to replacing harmful substances in products such as refrigerators, air conditioners, hairsprays, deodorants, and spray paints with environmentally friendly alternatives by 2010.

Detailed Observations Highlight Recovery

 

In 2024, the lowest ozone concentration was recorded at 109 Dobson units on October 5, compared to the record low of 92 Dobson units in October 2006. The ozone hole reached its maximum extent for the year on September 28, spanning 22.4 million square kilometers.

Scientists use a variety of monitoring tools, including NASA's Aura satellite, NOAA-20 and NOAA-21 satellites, and the Suomi NPP satellite. Additionally, NOAA conducts direct ozone measurements at the South Pole using weather balloons from the South Pole Baseline Atmospheric Observatory.

Proof of Global Collaboration's Impact

 

Paul Newman, head of NASA's ozone research, affirms that steady improvements over the past two decades demonstrate the effectiveness of international actions to reduce ozone-depleting substances.