To celebrate World Ozone Day today, Environment Minister Greg Hunt recognised Australian scientists involved in the four yearly assessments of ozone depletion.
The assessments are part of Australia's involvement in the Montreal Protocol to phase out ozone depleting substances.
Australia was one of the early countries to ratify the Montreal Protocol after it was opened for signature by the United Nations General Assembly on September 16, 1987.
"On World Ozone Day today we not only celebrate how 197 nations have worked together to close the hole in the atmosphere’s ozone layer, but also recognise the scientists who continue to assess our progress and pave the way for its ongoing recovery," Hunt said.
"It has been a great success not only in halting the loss of the vital ozone layer but also in paving the way for its recovery, meaning that the increased and dangerous ultraviolet rays from the sun will return to normal levels later this century.
"As one of the 197 countries to ratify the protocol, Australia has worked in partnership with industry, community, and all levels of government to ensure that protection is based on good science and is technically feasible, and that developing countries are supported in their efforts."
Australian scientist Professor David Karoly from the University of Melbourne is the first Australian to be represented on the steering committee for the four yearly assessments of ozone depletion released last week.
The 2014 assessment – the eighth and latest in a series which reports to the global community –shows the ozone layer is expected to recover to 1980 levels by the middle of this century. "However, we must remain vigilant and continue to phase-out these destructive substances," Hunt said.
Other Australian scientists with prominent roles in this year’s assessment include Dr Julie Arblaster and Dr Matt Tully from the Australian Bureau of Meteorology, Dr Simon Alexander and Dr Andrew Klekociuk from the Australian Antarctic Division, Dr Robyn Schofield from the University of Melbourne, Dr Paul Fraser and Mr Paul Krummel from the CSIRO.
For more information on the 2014 Assessment of Ozone Depletion visit http://ozone.unep.org/Assessment_Panels/SAP/SAP2014_Assessment_for_Decision-Makers.pdf
