About World Ozone Day
World Ozone Day, the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer, is observed on 16 September. The UN General Assembly declared it in 1994 to mark the signing of the Montreal Protocol and to raise awareness of protecting the ozone layer.
The ozone layer is a thin shield of gas high in the atmosphere that absorbs most of the sun's harmful ultraviolet rays. In the 1970s and 1980s, scientists found that certain chemicals used in refrigerators, air conditioners and aerosol sprays were thinning it.
Countries responded with the Montreal Protocol, signed on 16 September 1987, which phased out ozone-depleting substances. In 1994 the UN General Assembly named 16 September the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer. The Protocol is often cited as one of the most successful environmental agreements, and the ozone layer is on a path to recovery.
How it is marked
Governments, schools and environmental groups hold talks, quizzes, science exhibitions and poster competitions about the ozone layer and climate. Technicians and industry groups share information on safe refrigerants and proper servicing of cooling equipment.
In India, which is a party to the Montreal Protocol, the environment ministry and schools commonly mark the day with awareness programmes, student competitions and outreach on ozone-friendly cooling.
What to write
Keep the message hopeful. The ozone story shows that working together can fix big problems.
- Happy World Ozone Day. Nice to have one environment story with a good ending for once.
- Thank you for the small green choices you make every day. They add up.
- To our AC technician, thank you for explaining the refrigerant properly instead of just topping up the gas.
How to wish someone on World Ozone Day
gratitude for the ozone layer that shields life on Earth, and what countries achieved by working together
Write a few lines in your own words, pick a design and share it as one link on WhatsApp, Instagram or anywhere else. They open an animated card made just for them, with no app and no sign-up.
Language tip: English, Hindi + recipient language.
Frequently asked questions
Why is World Ozone Day on 16 September?
It marks the signing of the Montreal Protocol on 16 September 1987, the international agreement to phase out chemicals that damage the ozone layer.
What is the ozone layer and why does it matter?
The ozone layer is a region of the upper atmosphere that absorbs most of the sun's harmful ultraviolet rays, helping protect people, animals and plants.
How can students mark World Ozone Day?
Students can make posters or models explaining the ozone layer, research how the Montreal Protocol worked, and learn about ozone-friendly appliances and proper disposal of old fridges and ACs.
When is World Ozone Day in 2026?
World Ozone Day 2026 falls on Wednesday, 16 September 2026.
What is World Ozone Day?
World Ozone Day, the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer, is observed on 16 September. The UN General Assembly declared it in 1994 to mark the signing of the Montreal Protocol and to raise awareness of protecting the ozone layer.
Is World Ozone Day a public holiday?
Holiday status for World Ozone Day varies by state, employer and community in India, so check your local holiday list.
How do I wish someone on World Ozone Day?
Focus on gratitude for the ozone layer that shields life on earth, and what countries achieved by working together. On Kehdoo you can write a short message, pick a design and share a free animated World Ozone Day card as a single link, with no app or sign-up needed.
Sources
Last verified by the Kehdoo team on .