Ozone: Why the small molecule remains important for Switzerland and the world
The Swiss Academy of Sciences (SCNAT) recently highlighted the ongoing importance of ozone for our climate and our health. Although the ozone molecule has a very simple structure, it plays a decisive role for life on Earth. It protects us from harmful UV radiation, but also significantly influences air quality and the global climate.
In recent decades, there have been major political efforts worldwide to protect the ozone layer in the stratosphere. Through international agreements, many harmful substances that destroy ozone have been successfully reduced. Nevertheless, current observations show that the recovery of the ozone layer is proceeding more slowly than hoped. This process therefore remains an important topic for international research.
The topic also has direct relevance for Switzerland. Ground-level ozone can worsen air quality and strain the respiratory tract during high solar radiation in summer. Experts monitor concentrations closely to protect the population from health risks. SCNAT research helps to better understand the complex connections between air pollution and climatic changes.
In summary, protecting the ozone layer remains an ongoing task. While international policy continues to work on stabilizing the stratosphere, monitoring air quality remains an important measure for public health in Switzerland as well. A deeper understanding of this molecule is therefore still essential for a sustainable future.