Laughing gas is biggest threat to ozone layer
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.It is no joke: laughing gas is now the biggest threat to the Earth's ozone layer, say scientists.
Nitrous oxide, better known as the dental anaesthetic "laughing gas", has replaced CFCs as the most potent destroyer of ozone in the upper atmosphere, a study has shown.
Unlike CFCs (chlorofluorocarbons), once extensively used in refrigerators, emissionsof the gas are not limited by any international agreement.
"The dramatic reduction in CFCs over the past 20 years is an environmental success story," said Dr Akkihebbal Ravishankara, who led the US research.
"But man-made nitrous oxide is now the elephant in the room among ozone-depleting substances."
The ozone layer shields plants, animals and people from harmful ultraviolet radiation.
Thinning of the ozone layer can result in damage to crops and aquatic life, and expose humans to a greater risk of skin cancer. The 1987 Montreal Protocol did not cover nitrous oxide, which is generated by fertilisers, manure, sewage treatment, combustion and industry.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments