Ozone layer depletion is primarily caused by human-made chemicals, such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), halons, and other ozone-depleting substances (ODS). These chemicals release chlorine and bromine atoms upon exposure to UV light in the stratosphere, which then catalytically destroy ozone molecules. This process results in the thinning of the ozone layer, particularly over the polar regions, forming what is commonly known as the ozone hole.
