Scientists continuously monitor ozone-depleting gases

Today’s Video of the Day from NASA Goddard describes how computer models helped scientists pinpoint the source of an ozone-depleting gas.

In 1987, countries around the world signed the Montreal Protocol in an effort to reduce emissions of long-lived gases such as chlorofluorocarbons, which can destroy the ozone layer. 

Scientists around the world are continuously monitoring the atmospheric concentration of these gases, particularly CFC-11.

A few years ago, NOAA expert Dr. Steve Montzka noticed that CFC levels have been declining slower than expected across the globe. Observations from a monitoring station in Korea revealed that CFC emissions had been increasing in China. 

Monitoring the ozone is part of an long-running partnership between NASA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

Video Credit: NASA Goddard 

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By Chrissy Sexton, Earth.com Staff Writer