Ace the EPA 609 Technician Certification Challenge 2026 – Rev Up for Your Refrigerant Mastery!

The cause of ozone layer depletion primarily involves specific man-made chemicals rather than natural events or processes. Among the options provided, industrial emissions are a significant contributor due to the release of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and other halogenated compounds. These substances, once they reach the stratosphere, can catalyze the breakdown of ozone molecules, leading to depletion of the ozone layer.

While volcanic eruptions do release various gases and dust particles that can affect atmospheric composition, they are not a major driver of ozone depletion when compared to human activities. Deforestation, while detrimental to the environment in many ways, doesn’t have a direct effect on ozone layer health. Similarly, vehicle emissions contribute to air pollution and ground-level ozone formation but are not significant in terms of ozone layer depletion.

The correct focus here is that ozone layer depletion is predominantly caused by industrial emissions, particularly the release of CFCs and other ozone-depleting substances.