The ozone layer is a fragile part of Earth's atmosphere, situated approximately 10 to 50 kilometers above the Earth's surface. It plays a vital role in shielding us from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation emitted by the sun. UV radiation, if not filtered by the ozone layer, can cause various health problems, including skin cancer, cataracts, and a weakened immune system.

Over the years, human activities have led to the depletion of the ozone layer, primarily due to the release of harmful substances called ozone-depleting substances.

The United Nations General Assembly designated 16^th September as the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer to commemorate the signing of the Montreal Protocol on the same day in 1987. This global agreement aimed to phase out the production and use of substances that deplete the ozone layer. To date, global efforts to save the ozone layer have been incredibly successful with the UN stating that we could see a full recovery in just a few decades.

At Russell Group, we believe that our planet's protective shield deserves our attention and action. Our fleet expels nitrogen oxides and hydrocarbons and when these compounds interact with sunlight ozone is created. As such we have put many environmental initiatives in place to reduce our production of ozone and help rebuild our ozone layer. To find out more about our environmental initiatives, please read our sustainability statement which can be found here.

Our mission to safeguard our planet from the perils of climate change is still ongoing. That's why we're committed to achieving net-zero status by 2040. We're determined to continue to develop innovative ways to make our business and industry more environmentally friendly – ensuring a brighter, greener future for all.