Ozone Layer Protection

The stratospheric ozone layer is Earth’s “sunscreen” – protecting living things from too much ultraviolet radiation from the sun. The emission of human-made ozone-depleting substances, commonly used in refrigeration and air conditioning, foam products, aerosols, solvents, and for fire suppression, has been damaging the ozone layer. But through domestic and international action to phaseout these substances, the ozone layer is healing and should fully recover by about 2065. This website addresses stratospheric ozone issues, including the science of ozone depletion, EPA's regulatory approach to protecting the ozone layer, and international action establishing a global framework for ozone layer protection.

• Background and Science

  

  Learn about the science behind the ozone layer, ozone depletion, and health impacts of ozone loss.

  Explore Ozone Science

• Regulatory Programs Under the Clean Air Act

  

  Learn about how EPA regulates ozone-depleting substances under the Clean Air Act.

  See Regulatory Programs

• Related Actions and Programs

  

  Learn about related voluntary, educational, and outreach programs, as well as programs to address HFCs, commonly used substitutes for ODS.

  See Related Programs

• International Action

  

  Learn about international agreements to protect the ozone layer.

  See International Action