Since the early 1970s, researchers across the globe have been working to understand the ozone layerozone layerThe region of the stratosphere containing the bulk of atmospheric ozone. The ozone layer lies approximately 15-40 kilometers (10-25 miles) above the Earth's surface, in the stratosphere. Depletion of this layer by ozone depleting substances (ODS) will lead to higher UVB levels, which in turn will cause increased skin cancers and cataracts and potential damage to some marine organisms, plants, and plastics. The science page (http://www.epa.gov/ozone/science/index.html) offers much more detail on the science of ozone depletion., the causes of its depletion, and the effects of ozone layer depletion on humans and the environment.

• Basic Ozone Layer Science
• Health and Environmental Effects of Ozone Layer Depletion
• Current State of the Ozone Layer
• Ozone-Depleting Substances
• Ozone Layer Research and Technical Resources