In addition to human toxicity, Methyl bromide is also a contributor to the depletion of the ozone layer, as it has a half-life in the air up to 1.6 years.
Ozone is a rare form of oxygen found in both the troposphere and stratosphere. This molecule absorbs harmful ultraviolet radiation (UV-B) from the sun, acting as a sunscreen for Earth and aiding in climate moderation. Studies have shown a strong inverse relationship between stratospheric ozone levels and UV-B reaching the Earth’s surface. Increases in skin cancer, eye damage, sunburn, and crop damage can result from increased UV-B. Over Siberia, Canada, and Europe, ozone levels have been 20-25% lower than previously recorded levels. While MB is naturally occurring, many studies have suggested that anthropogenic causes are the major emissions source.
In 1987, the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer was ratified by all countries to incrementally phase out the production and consumption of Methyl Bromide which contributes to the depletion of the stratospheric ozone layer.