Whose observations first revealed the ozone hole over Antarctica?
Quick Answer
Joe Farman, Brian Gardiner, and Jonathan Shanklin at the British Antarctic Survey first reported the dramatic springtime ozone depletion in 1985. Their discovery led to major global action on CFCs.
The Full Story
Joe Farman, Brian Gardiner, and Jonathan Shanklin of the British Antarctic Survey are credited with the first clear identification of the Antarctic ozone hole. In 1985 they reported that springtime ozone levels over Antarctica had fallen sharply, much more than expected. Their observations helped reveal the severe effects of chlorofluorocarbons, or CFCs, on the stratosphere. The discovery accelerated international policy, including the Montreal Protocol of 1987.
Key Facts
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