The Antarctic ozone layer which protects the Earth from harmful UV rays is showing promising signs of healing, according to a study published in the journal Science.

Almost 2 decades ago, the international policy was adopted on an agreement - the Montreal Protocol of 1987, which States that one should abstain from substances that destroy the ozone layer. Of substances such as chlorofluorocarbons and others, which are present in refrigerators, spray cans and dry chemicals to clean decided to ban. At the moment, the scientists noticed the healing of the ozone layer of the earth.

"The ozone layer should recover, albeit very slowly," the researchers write in the study, which was published on Thursday.

"We now believe we made the right decision, and the planet will be able to heal," said Professor Susan Solomon from Massachusetts Institute of technology, who led the international team of researchers.

The ozone layer is a fragile shield of gas, protects animals and plants life on Earth from the powerful UV rays. When the ozone layer is weakened, more rays can go through and they badly affect people, which makes them prone to development of skin cancer, cataracts and other diseases. The ozone hole was discovered in 1985. After this it was decided to make the Montreal Protocol, which was adopted after 2 years.

Scientists have discovered that the hole in the ozone layer was reduced by 1.5 million square miles, on the basis of their measurements annually in September. Since the Montreal Protocol came into force, the amount of harmful chemicals is reduced. Chemicals in the atmosphere a long time apart, so the researchers expect that the hole will be sealed around 2050.
sections: Society, World News