Simply put, ozone depleting substances are gasses that contribute to global warming by harming the ozone layer. Some of these gases and substances can last in the atmosphere for around 50 years. By damaging the earth’s ozone layer we are less protected from harmful radiation from the sun. In this blog, we sharing what ozone depleting substances are and where you can find them.
Chlorofluorocarbons
In the 1930s, Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) was developed as a safe alternative for refrigeration as other gases at the time were considered harmful. It wasn’t until 1974 that scientists started to note the damaging effect it had on the ozone layer. And it wasn’t until 1988 that the world took action by banning it in 1988.
Can be found in:
- Old refrigerators
- Aerosol sprays
- Old air conditioners
Halon
In Australia Halon because widely used by firefighters in the 1970s because of how well it stopped combustion. However, Halon turned out to be ten times more damaging to the ozone layer than CFS and the use of Halon in Australia was banned in 1994 with the clean air act.
Can be found in:
- Fire extinguishers that are yellow
- Green extinguishers that have been imported
Methyl bromide
Methyl bromide was used as a pesticide and a fumigant treatment for soil before and after harvest. Unfortunately, it is also harmful to our ozone layer and was listed in the Montreal Protocol as one of the many banned ozone depleting substances. It is also toxic to people, in extreme cases, it can cause long-term neuromuscular and cognitive defects. The fumigant should have been phased out in Australia by 2005 however there are remnants as finding an alternative proved difficult. There are also a few exceptions for its use.
Can be found in:
- Pesticides
- Fumigants
While a lot of these substances aren’t toxic to people nobody wants to harm our ozone layer, so if you encounter these products make sure you properly dispose of them. At Alpha Environmental we care about the environment by being experts in pollution, hazardous material and toxic exposure. If you are thinking about refurbishment or demolition, we can put your mind at ease by assessing hazardous material and advising you on how to remove it safely. To learn more, or to request a quote please call us on 1300 039 181.
