What caused the depletion of the ozone layer?

The depletion of the ozone layer was mainly caused by human-made chemicals called chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), along with halons, carbon tetrachloride, and methyl chloroform. These were widely used in refrigeration, air conditioners, aerosol sprays, and fire extinguishers. When released, they rise into the stratosphere, where sunlight breaks them down, releasing chlorine and bromine atoms. These atoms destroy ozone molecules, creating a hole in the ozone layer, especially over Antarctica. This thinning allowed harmful UV rays to penetrate, endangering life on Earth. The recognition of this issue led to the Montreal Protocol (1987), a landmark global agreement to phase out ODS.