Why is damage to the ozone layer a cause for concern? What steps are being taken to limit this damage?

Ozone layer shields the surface of the earth from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiations from the Sun. Damage to the ozone layer will allow these harmful UV radiations to reach the earth's surface and harm the environment in the following ways:

1. It can cause many diseases in human beings like skin cancer and cataract.
2. It can result in the death of many phytoplanktons leading to increased global warming.
3. It can disturb the ecological balance in marine ecosystem.
4. It can cause genetic disorders which ultimately affect heredity.

Following steps are being taken to limit the damage to the ozone layer:

1. Use of products that contain CFC's to be replaced by alternative products.
2. Regulations against release of CFCs directly in environment.
3. Minimize the emission of gases that are harmful for Ozone layer such as nitrogen oxide.
4. UNEP agreement to freeze CFC production at 1986 levels.