Four new man-made gases that are contributing to the depletion of the ozone layer have been identified by scientists, two of which are beginning to accumulate at a rate that is causing concern.
Since the 1980s, the production of chlorofluorocarbon (CFCs) gases, which are known to damage the ozone layer, have been restricted. There was eventually a global ban on production in 2010. However, preventing these four new gases from damaging the ozone layer may prove difficult as their origin is currently unknown. What is known is that three of the gases are CFCs and one is a hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) which can also damage the ozone layer.
Having taken air samples in a remote area in Tasmania, scientists estimate that approximately 74,000 tonnes of these gases have been released into the atmosphere.
Dr Johannes Laube, lead researcher, said, "Our research has shown four gases that were not around in the atmosphere at all until the 1960s which suggests they are man-made." Dr Laube continued, "The identification of these four new gases is very worrying as they will contribute to the destruction of the ozone layer. We don't know where the new gases are being emitted from and this should be investigated. Possible sources include feedstock chemicals for insecticide production and solvents for cleaning electronic components."
However, finding the source and stopping the production of these gases will not see an immediate prevention of damage. As Dr Laube explained, "What's more, the three CFCs are being destroyed very slowly in the atmosphere - so even if emissions were to stop immediately, they will still be around for many decades to come."
Scientists have acknowledged that the concentration of these gases are small, and do not pose an immediate concern, but their origin must be found to avoid the concentrations becoming an issue.
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