What is the importance of the ozone layer in Earth's atmosphere?

The ozone layer is a layer of ozone gas in Earth's atmosphere that plays a critical role in protecting life on Earth by absorbing harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. The ozone layer is located in the stratosphere, which is the layer of the atmosphere that extends from about 10 to 50 kilometers above the Earth's surface.

UV radiation can cause damage to living organisms, including humans, by damaging DNA and increasing the risk of skin cancer and cataracts. The ozone layer acts as a protective shield against these harmful effects by absorbing much of the UV radiation before it reaches the Earth's surface.

Human activities, such as the use of certain chemicals, including chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), have led to the depletion of the ozone layer, which can result in increased UV radiation reaching the Earth's surface. This can have serious consequences for human health and the environment. In recognition of the importance of the ozone layer, the international community has taken action to reduce the use of ozone-depleting substances through the Montreal Protocol and subsequent agreements.