The ozone layer plays a critical role in shielding the Earth from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Over the past few decades, human activities have significantly impacted its stability, primarily due to the emission of ozone-depleting substances (ODS) such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and halons. The Montreal Protocol, adopted in 1987, has been instrumental in phasing out these substances, leading to measurable signs of ozone layer recovery. Scientists predict that the ozone layer will return to pre-1980 levels by 2040 in mid-latitudes, 2045 in the Arctic, and 2066 over Antarctica. This recovery has also influenced air quality management, as reducing ODS has helped lower certain greenhouse gas emissions and tropospheric ozone formation, which is a major air pollutant. However, new challenges persist, including illegal ODS emissions and the need for climate-friendly alternatives to some replacement chemicals, requiring continuous global cooperation and monitoring to ensure long-term environmental and public health benefits.

Despite significant progress in ozone layer recovery due to the Montreal Protocol, challenges remain in fully restoring stratospheric ozone and improving air quality management. While ozone-depleting substances (ODS) have been largely phased out, unexpected emissions of banned chemicals, such as CFC-11, highlight the need for stricter enforcement and continuous monitoring. Additionally, some replacement compounds, such as hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), do not deplete ozone but contribute to climate change, necessitating the development of environmentally friendly alternatives. Urban air pollution, influenced by ozone chemistry, remains a major concern, requiring further research into the interaction between ozone recovery and air quality.

This Research Topic aims to explore advancements in atmospheric monitoring, policy enforcement, and alternative technologies that support ozone recovery and air quality improvement. Recent developments offer promising solutions, such as satellite-based ozone observation, AI-driven atmospheric modeling, and the Kigali Amendment’s push to phase down HFCs. Further studies can assess how evolving industrial practices, sustainable refrigerants, and enhanced emission regulations can ensure continued ozone layer healing. By integrating scientific research, policy analysis, and technological innovation, this topic seeks to address ongoing challenges and support global efforts in protecting both the ozone layer and air quality for future generations.

To gather further insights into atmospheric science and the environment, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

• Advancements in atmospheric monitoring and impact of stratospheric ozone recovery on tropospheric air quality
• Effectiveness of the Montreal Protocol and the Kigali Amendment
• Ozone modeling research and predictive simulations; regional and global modeling of ozone layer recovery trends
• Development of AI-driven and machine learning approaches for ozone
• Urban air pollution associated with ozone chemistry and public health
• Innovative mitigation strategies and solutions

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Ozone Recovery and Air Quality: Advances in Monitoring, Modeling, and Mitigation