Ozone
Ozone (O3) is the triatomic form of oxygen. It is a gaseous atmospheric constituent.
The ozone layer is a layer of Earth's stratosphere that absorbs most of the Sun's ultraviolet radiation. It is mainly found in the lower portion of the stratosphere, from approximately 15 to 35 kilometres above Earth.
Ozone depleting substances are man-made chemicals that damage the ozone layer. They have contributed to the formation of the 'ozone hole' over the Antarctic.
The emissions of ozone depleting substances increased in the middle to late 20th century, linked to the use of chemicals such as Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) in refrigeration, industrial cleaning, foam blowing and air conditioning.
As a result of the threat of increased ozone depletion, an international agreement was formulated in 1987, known as the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer, to reduce the worldwide use of ozone depleting substances.
For more information see: Ozone depleting substances.
NB The glossary of statistical terms, published by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), defines ground-level ozone as: ‘…ozone present as a secondary pollutant in the lower atmosphere, where its formation can be enhanced by other pollutants. It is highly toxic at levels above 0.1 parts per million (p.p.m.).’
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
Guide to ISO 19650 for Architecture Firms (2026)
A user gives their low down.
A UK training and membership provider for mould remediation professionals.
Building Safety recap April, 2026
A short and longer run-through of the month, with links to further information and sources.
CIAT May 2026 briefing.
Independent NSI and BAFE study exploring how organisations are changing the way they buy fire safety services.
From medieval scribes to modern word art.
ECA welcomes crackdown on late payment and push for clean energy, whilst CIOB seek fixed cladding removal timeframes.
Cyber Security in the Built Environment
Protecting projects, data, and digital assets: A CIOB Academy TIS.
Managing competence in the built environment
ITFG publishes new industry guide on how to meet the ICC principles.
The UK's campaign to reduce noise pollution: Mythbusting, articles and topic guides.
Setting Expectations on Competence Management
Industry Competence Committee.
New Scottish and Welsh governments
CIOB stresses importance of construction after new parliament elections.
The sad story of Derby Hippodrome
An historic building left to decay.
ECA, JIB and JTL back Fabian Society call to invest in skills for a stronger built environment workforce.
Women's Contributions to the Built Environment.
Calls for the delayed Circular Economy Strategy
Over 50 leading businesses, trade associations and professional bodies, including CIAT, and UKGBC sign open letter.
The future workforce: culture change and skill
Under the spotlight at UK Construction Week London.
A landmark moment for postmodern heritage.