Ozone: A small molecule with a big impact on Switzerland
The Swiss Academy of Sciences (SCNAT) has published a new report on ozone. The gas is a simple molecule, but it plays a central role in our climate, air quality, and human health. Although policymakers have been trying to protect the ozone layer for decades, the situation remains complex.
In the stratosphere, the upper layers of the atmosphere, ozone protects us from dangerous UV radiation. However, the recovery of this layer is progressing more slowly than hoped. This has direct consequences for Switzerland, as an intact ozone layer is crucial for protection against skin diseases and for the stability of ecosystems in the Alps.
On the Earth's surface, however, ozone acts as a pollutant. On hot summer days, ozone concentrations in Switzerland can rise sharply, which is particularly stressful for people with respiratory conditions. Research shows that air quality is closely linked to climate change, as higher temperatures promote the formation of ground-level ozone.
In summary, the topic of ozone remains an important field for Swiss science. Experts emphasize that international cooperation and continuous measurements are necessary to both preserve the protective layer high above and reduce the burden of ozone on the ground.