The Earth’s protective shield is on track to fully heal. The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has confirmed that the ozone layer — long threatened by human activity — is steadily returning to its 1980s levels.
This recovery marks one of the most successful examples of global cooperation in modern history. Decades ago, the discovery of a “hole” in the ozone layer over Antarctica sparked urgent international action, as scientists warned of catastrophic consequences if nothing were done. The 1987 Montreal Protocol, which phased out the use of ozone-depleting substances such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), remains the cornerstone of this achievement.
According to WMO projections, the ozone layer is expected to return to 1980s conditions by 2040 across most of the world, by 2045 in the Arctic, and by 2066 over the Antarctic — where depletion has been most severe. These timelines reflect not only the durability of international policy but also the natural pace of atmospheric repair.
Scientists emphasize that the recovery was made possible by a combination of strict political and industrial measures, supported by the near-universal ratification of the Montreal Protocol, alongside naturally occurring atmospheric fluctuations that helped stabilize the trend.
The implications are profound. A fully restored ozone layer will significantly reduce risks of ultraviolet radiation exposure, which has been linked to higher rates of skin cancer, cataracts, weakened immune systems, and long-term damage to terrestrial and marine ecosystems.
Evidence of progress has been accumulating for years. In 2022, monitoring data confirmed that international policies were producing measurable improvements. By 2025, those gains had become undeniable, with experts pointing to a clear, positive trajectory toward recovery.
The WMO’s announcement is more than just good news — it is a reminder that coordinated global action can succeed in reversing even the gravest environmental threats.