The ozone layer is an area of the earth’s stratosphere with a comparatively large number of O3 molecules. It is very important because it prevents some of the harmful UV radiation from destroying life on our planet. 

• The ozone layer stretches across altitudes of about 10-30km from the earth’s surface. Stratospheric ozone molecules absorb and dissipate the incoming UV radiation mainly comprising the UV-B and UV-C wavelengths. 
• These high-energy rays are absorbed and dissipated along their journey, thereby preventing them from reaching the earth’s surface in large quantities. Such UV radiations would cause increased cases of skin cancer and cataract and environmental damage if they passed through unblocked. 
• In the last few years however, the human actions associated with the degradation of the ozone layer have become evident and are mostly attributed to the production and releases of ODS such as chlorofluoric carbon and halon respectively. As a result, the “ozone hole” has been developed in some areas like Antarctica. 
• Ozone depletion is one among many global environmental issues that expose life forms to the damaging effects of ultraviolet rays. The ozone layer is slowly recovering because some international programs such as the Montreal Protocol have been implemented in order to phase out numerous ODS. This delicate cover provides protection and ensures that life on Earth shall not be destroyed by the harmful effects of UV rays.