High above our heads, much higher than aeroplanes fly, there is a thin layer of a gas called ozone. It works like sunscreen for the whole planet. It blocks most of the Sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays.
On 16 September 2026, World Ozone Day, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) shared a new report on the ozone layer. The WMO is a United Nations agency that studies weather and climate.
What did the report say?
Every year, during the spring season in Antarctica, the ozone layer there becomes very thin. Scientists call this the “ozone hole”. The report says the ozone hole in 2025 was one of the smallest since 1992. It was much smaller than the average for the years 1990 to 2010.
The report also says the ozone layer has been recovering since the year 2000. But full healing will take several more decades.
Why is it getting better?
Years ago, people used chemicals called CFCs (chlorofluorocarbons) in refrigerators, fire-fighting foam and other things. These chemicals damaged the ozone layer. In 1987, countries agreed to a treaty called the Montreal Protocol. Slowly, the whole world stopped using these harmful chemicals.
Now, step by step, the ozone layer is getting better. This shows that when countries work together, they can solve big problems for our planet.
Think about it: Can you think of one problem in your school or neighbourhood that could be solved if everyone worked together?