International day for preservation of Ozone layer observed at Amity University

Amity University in association with National Environment Science Academy (NESA) observed "International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer" here at Amity Campus.

The day marks the commemoration of the date of signing of the Montreal Protocol in 1987 on substances that deplete the Ozone layer. The UN theme for this year is 'Ozone Layer Protection: The Mission Goes On'.

During the occasion, Dr. Neloy Khare, Director, Scientist F, Ministry of Earth Sciences and Prof. A Arunachalam, Principal Scientist, ICAR delivered special lectures.

Sharing his views, Dr. W Selvamurthy - President, Amity Science Technology and Innovation Foundation said that depletion in ozone layer will create innumerable problems for flora, fauna and human beings which include reduction in crop yield, decrease in photosynthesis, disappearance of large number of species and deteriorated air quality that affects health and growth of flora, fauna and human beings.

He further said that although, India has actively worked on the guidelines of Montreal Protocol and is successfully phasing out CFC, yet, there is lot to achieve.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Neloy Khare said that the Montreal Protocol has so far been successful in meeting some of its targets including phasing out ozone-depleting substances. As a result, the ozone-depleting substances in the atmosphere are declining and the ozone layer is expected to revive.

He further added that there are few challenges which need to be addressed for complete phase-out of ozone-depleting substances and also, there are some regions such as Antarctica that are still facing the issue of ozone depletion. Outlining the effects of Ozone layer depletion, Dr. Khare added that UVA and UVB lights that penetrated into the atmosphere can cause Skin Cancer, Immune Suppression, Eye Problems and other diseases.

Dr. A. Arunachalam made a brief presentation on the views of ICAR on the Forestry education in the country.

During the occasion, several academicians of other schools were awarded on behalf of NESA for their contribution in the field of Environment.

The event was attended by the Students, Research Scholars and Academicians of Amity University.