Ozone Depletion Slows as Chemicals’ Use Falls

The rate of destruction of the protective ozone layer in the upper reaches of the atmosphere is slowing. Scientists say the phenomenon mirrors a decline in the use of certain man-made chemicals.

NASA satellite observations showed that the rate of ozone layer depletion matched a drop in chlorofluorocarbons, used in refrigeration and air-conditioning, scientists said.

“Ozone is still decreasing but just not as fast,” said Mike Newchurch, a professor at the University of Alabama and a leader of the study. “We are still decades away from total ozone recovery.”