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Ozone Layer Depletion
During the 1970s, scientists discovered that ozone molecules in our stratosphere, the location of 90 percent of all ozone, were being destroyed by certain man-made products, such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). This layer forms a protective shield around our planet, absorbing the majority of harmful UV radiation from the sun. Reductions in the ozone layer result in an increase in the levels of UV radiation reaching the surface of our planet. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), studies have shown that UV levels can double in Antarctica during the time of the annual ozone hole, data that is supported by similar studies in Canada.
Ramifications For Human Health
UV radiation, responsible for causing sunburns, has been demonstrated to cause both non-melanoma skin cancer and malignant melanoma, responsible for 75 percent of skin cancer deaths. Other UV-related effects on the skin include actinic keratosis and premature aging of the skin. The EPA notes that UV radiation may also suppress the body's immune system and reduce the skin's natural defenses. Additionally, UV radiation has been linked to the development of cataracts, which can lead to blindness.
Ramifications For Plant Health
UV radiation has been shown to disrupt the developmental and physiological functions in plants. These harmful results can cause changes in plant structure, in the distribution of nutrients, in the timing of developmental phases and secondary metabolism. According to the United Nations Environmental Program (UNEP), increases in UV radiation can reduce plant productivity by as much as 6 percent.
Ramifications For Oceanic Ecosystems
UV radiation has been shown to affect the orientation mechanisms and motility of phytoplankton. These tiny organisms form the basis of the oceanic food chain and are critical for the support of higher-level animals, which ultimately support human life. The UNEP notes that increased levels of UV radiation have been shown to reduce phytoplankton survival rates by as much as 6 to 12 percent. Additionally, UV radiation results in damage to the early development and reproductive capabilities of fish, shrimp, crabs, amphibians and many other marine animals. UV radiation also affects the early developmental stages of brown and red algae and affects the vertical distribution of seaweeds.
Ramification For Climate Change
Increases in UV radiation can affect the creation and elimination of greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, carbonyl sulfide and ozone. Ozone depletion affects climate change, and climate change affects ozone levels; thus, these effects can potentially create a feedback cycle that increases the buildup of these gases and the continued depletion of our ozone layer. Changes in ozone levels can also affect surface wind patterns and regional rainfall amounts. The effects on climate change also directly impact the effects on our oceanic ecosystems. Increased temperatures reduce the depth of the ocean's upper, mixed layer. This exposes organisms to higher levels of UV radiation and amplifies the effects noted above.