Map displaying the hole in the ozone layer (blue/purple) over the Antarctic on 3 October 2023, the point at which the concentration of ozone was at its minimum. Historic minimum ozone concentrations are illustrated by the white line overlayed. Ozone layer thicknesses are colour coded from purple (lowest) through blue, green and yellow to red (highest). Concentration of ozone is shown in Dobson units (100 Dobson units are equal to a 1mm thick ozone layer). Though the hole on the date pictured was approximately the size of North America, it is gradually decreasing in size and is estimated to recover by 2050. The integrity of the ozone layer is important as ozone absorbs UV (ultraviolet) rays, which damage DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid). Data modelled from the Goddard Earth Observing System Model, Version 5 (GEOS-5).