Forty years ago, nations came together under the Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer and agreed to take appropriate measures to protect people and the planet from harmful UV radiation pouring through a potentially damaged ozone layer.
The day reminds us that the ozone layer is crucial for life on earth as it absorbs most of the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. The day promotes environmental awareness and action to safeguard human health, ecosystems, and the planet. Key significance: Prevents increased UV radiation reaching Earth.
This year, on the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer, we celebrate this historic achievement and look forward to another forty years of action. The Montreal Protocol and Vienna Convention remain crucial for monitoring ozone and UV radiation levels, as well as ozone-depleting substances and other chemicals, such as hydrofluorocarbons (greenhouse gases), being phased out under the Kigali Amendment.
The ozone treaties have epitomized the concept of moving from Science to Global Action. And they will do so for many years to come.
In Kenya, the national celebrations was held on 16th September, 2025 in Nairobi-Michuki Park under the theme, “From science to global action.
During the event, NEMA Director General was represented by the Director Environmental Compliance, Mr. David Ong’are who underscored the need to undertake activities that contribute to protection of ozone layer.
The Authority exhibited and showcased its mobile air quality laboratory that monitors the quality of ambient air countrywide.
The celebration was graced by the CS Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Forestry, Dr. Deborah Barasa. The CS called for global solidarity while reminding us that all decisions rooted in science can inspire global unity and concrete solutions in reduction of global warming. The event was held at John Michuki Memorial Park in Nairobi.
Kenya joined the Vienna Convention and the Montreal protocol in November 1988 and since then has ratified several amendments to show the country’s commitment to protect the ozone layer and tackling climate change.
|| By Oceanic Sakwa & Peris Murage
