Does the Ozone Layer still have a hole in it?

Sun beaming through a hole in the coulds

Ozone is a gas. A toxic, pale blue, odorous, irritative and explosive gas. But without it being naturally formed and making up part of our atmosphere, we’d be unable to survive on Earth. We’d literally fry from the sun’s ultraviolet rays. The thin layer of ozone, which sits in the bottom part of the stratosphere about 9-18 miles above the Earth, absorbs approximately 98% of extremely harmful UVB rays, which are the most damaging of the ultraviolet types (A, B and C). So, way back in the 80’s when it was discovered that there was a ‘hole’ in this protective layer of gas over Australia, Antarctica and the Arctic, a massive global response was initiated.
But what ever happened? Are there still holes up there? The ozone layer doesn’t get much air time these days. And is ozone anthropogenic or natural? Read on to learn all about it!

Read more

The Australia Fires

Bee hive with YouTube logo red play button at center.

By now, you’ve probably heard about the bushfires in Australia. You may have seen the photos and videos of smoke-filled skies, injured animals, and flames. Or maybe you’ve heard the discussions on Climate Change and some terrifying stats on the condition of wildlife in the “down under”.

It’s a lot to take in, and whether you’re up to date or not, we’re here to put it all together for you: What is the Australian bush? Why is it burning? How is climate change responsible? What about the wildlife? And what can YOU do to help?

Read more

Where Your Computer Goes to Die…

Truck full of old electronics including computer hard drives, monitors, fax machines, headphones, wires, etc.

Every year the world produces approximately 50 million metric tons of electronic or “e-waste” according to the UN University. This is more than the weight of all the commercial aircraft ever made, looks like 4,500 Eiffel Towers, is enough to completely cover an area the size of Manhattan, and is roughly worth $62.5 billion USD.

Read more