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International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer

Join the world in protecting our planet on International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer - let's all work together to keep our Earth healthy!

Wednesday

September 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATESeptember 16

OBSERVED INInternationally

CATEGORYNature

SUBCATEGORYConservation

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

On September 16, we celebrate International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer! This day was created in 1994 to recognize and commemorate the date that the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer came into force. Since then, this international agreement has been a major success in protecting our planet's ozone layer. We can be proud of what has been accomplished thanks to collective global action, and use this day as an opportunity to continue advocating for more protection of the ozone layer.

TIMELINE

International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer Timeline

Ozone Depletion Discovery

Scientists Mario Molina and Sherwood Rowland publish their research on the potential for chemical depletion of the ozone layer by human-made CFCs.

Vienna Convention

The Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer is adopted, creating a framework for international cooperation to protect the ozone layer.

Montreal Protocol

The Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer is agreed upon, which serves as an international treaty for phasing out the production of numerous substances responsible for ozone depletion.

International Day Establishment

The United Nations General Assembly proclaims September 16th as the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer.

Complete CFC Phase-Out

Complete phase-out of CFCs achieved in all countries as mandated by the Montreal Protocol.

Ozone Hole Shrinkage

NASA and NOAA researchers report the smallest annual ozone hole on record, demonstrating the continued healing of the ozone layer.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer

Grow an ozone-friendly garden

Plant some trees, flowers and other vegetation that will help to reduce the amount of ozone-depleting chemicals in the atmosphere. Make sure to use natural fertilizers and pesticides, compost your kitchen scraps, and avoid using any products that contain chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs).

REDUCE

Reduce your energy consumption

By reducing energy consumption, you can help conserve the ozone layer. This includes turning off lights when you’re not in the room, unplugging unused electronics, and using energy efficient appliances.

RECYCLE

Recycle

Recycling helps to reduce the amount of energy and resources needed to produce new products. It also reduces the amount of waste that is sent to landfills, which can emit harmful gases into the atmosphere.

EDUCATE

Educate yourself

There are lots of ways to learn more about the ozone layer and how you can help protect it. Read up on the environmental impacts of ozone depletion, attend a local seminar or workshop, or even volunteer with an organization that focuses on preserving the ozone layer.

SPREAD

Spread awareness

Sharing information about the ozone layer and its importance is key to preserving it. Talk to your friends and family about what you’ve learned and encourage them to join you in celebrating International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer is Important

Preserving the ozone helps ensure food security

Ozone depletion causes an increase in ultraviolet radiation which can have devastating effects on crops and animals. The decrease in crop yields due to UV damage may lead to decreased access to food or rising prices, making it harder for people to afford sustenance.

Protecting the ozone layer is essential for our survival

The ozone layer is a protective shield around Earth that blocks out harmful ultraviolet radiation from the sun. Without it, life on our planet would be unsustainable. This makes preserving the ozone layer a crucial task that must not be forgotten.

Reducing emissions helps protect the ozone layer

Many pollutants, such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), are known to damage the ozone layer. Reducing emissions of these pollutants and using more sustainable energy sources can slow down or even reverse the damage being done to the ozone layer.