The ozone hole refers to a region of significantly depleted ozone layer in the Earth's stratosphere. This thinning of the ozone layer is mainly caused by human-made chemicals called chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and other ozone-depleting substances. The consequences of the ozone hole include increased exposure to harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun, which can lead to higher rates of skin cancer, cataracts, and other health issues in humans and animals. Additionally, UV radiation can also have detrimental effects on marine life, plants, and ecosystems. Efforts to reduce the use of ozone-depleting substances have been made through international agreements like the Montreal Protocol to protect and restore the ozone layer.
