A new study led by the University of Reading warns that the recovery of Earth’s ozone layer may contribute about 40% more warming than previously predicted. Though the ozone layer shields us from harmful UV radiation, it also acts as a greenhouse gas—trapping additional heat as it recovers.ScienceDaily
What the Data Shows
- Timeline: From 2015 to 2050, ozone is projected to cause an extra 0.27 W/m² of radiative forcing—warming the planet more than expected.
- Comparative Impact: Carbon dioxide remains the largest warming contributor (at 1.75 W/m²), followed closely by ozone’s newfound impact.
How This Happens
- Healing the ozone layer is crucial—but ironically increases greenhouse trapping.
- Combined with air pollution, which boosts ground-level ozone (a potent greenhouse gas), this recovery amplifies warming.
Strategic Takeaway
This revelation challenges assumptions that protecting the ozone layer automatically aids climate mitigation. While essential for human health, recovery now comes with a climate trade-off—prompting calls to also reduce air pollution and surface-level ozone to counterbalance these effects.
