Changes in stratospheric ozone depletion: Communicating the science

With the report of the discovery of the Antarctic ozone hole 1985, depletion of our protective shield of stratospheric ozone entered into the consciousness of our global community. As a consequence, substantial scientific efforts were invested in understanding the phenomenon. The outcome showed that human activities were causing the severe depletion through the release of long-lived gases involved in refrigeration and other processes. Global action was taken in the form of the 1987 Montreal Protocol, which established controls on the production and consumption of ozone-depleting gases. Now, more than a decade later, we know that the Protocol is working. However, the ozone hole will remain with us for several more decades as ozone-depleting gases decline in the atmosphere. In this interim period, as will be presented, it is crucial for the public that the science of ozone depletion remains a key factor in interpreting ozone changes and predictions of future abundances. Year-to-year changes in the depth of the Antarctic ozone hole, for example, are easily misinterpreted as changes in the speed of the ozone recovery process. Furthermore, ozone recovery in future years might be influenced by unexpected changes in the atmosphere brought about by other human activities or climate change. The broadcast media play a crucial role in informing the public about the current state of ozone recovery. Scientists can play an important role by providing the media with the latest assessment of annual changes in ozone and the progress of recovery, all in the context of our overall understanding. Thus, it is important that scientists and media representatives establish a link to ensure that the public perception of ozone depletion remains scientifically sound.