- Since companies were originally unaware that they were causing ozone depletion (before ozone measurements were taken), how much should they be blamed?
- The problem was indirect—the ozone-depleting chemicals weren’t by themselves harming humans or animals; it was their effect on the ozone layer.
- Even though the problem received such attention so quickly, it still has a lasting effect today. According to one study, the ozone hole has redirected the southern jet stream, changing ocean currents and wind patterns. (NY Times)
- In an optimistic view, the problem of ozone depletion can be compared with the problem of global climate change. Though they are separate but related problems, they are similar in that they are caused by man-made emissions. Furthermore, in both cases, the problem would not vanish within just a few years if these emissions suddenly stopped. The best we can hope for, for global climate change, is international cooperation similar to what occurred for the problem of ozone depletion. (NY Times)
Source: http://ozone.unep.org/Assessment_Panels/SAP/Scientific_Assessment_2010/SAP-2010-FAQs-update.pdf (Q15)
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