The ozone layer is a region in Earth’s stratosphere that contains high concentrations of a bluish gas called ozone.Although ozone constitutes only about one-millionth of the 46 gases, it absorbs most of the sun’s ultraviolet radiation. Without the ozone layer, this radiation would destroy all life on the surface of the planet. 

    Ultraviolet radiation creates and perpetuates ozone. Because an ozone molecule is struck by an ultraviolet ray, it falls apart, 47 free oxygen. An oxygen atom can combine with another free oxygen to 48 more ozone, and this cycle absorbs most UV radiation. 

    Some manufactured chemicals interfere with this cycle, thus reducing the amount of ozone in the stratosphere.Among the worst offenders are chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), usually found in refrigerants and aerosol sprays and now generally 49 due to their harmful effects. Falling ozone levels have caused a thinning of the ozone layer above Antarctica, 50 the ozone hole. The Antarctic ozone hole has increased dramatically in size over the past two decades. A smaller hole over the Arctic is now developing.

       In the 1970s teenagers and young adults in America were experimenting with drugs while promoting peace. It wasa reaction to the tragic war in Vietnam. Today, youths go to clubs and 8 the entire night dancing, but still use awide variety of illegal substances. These illegal drugs have been termed “club drugs.” While there are many types ofclub drugs, the most popular include E (ecstasy), Acid (LSD) and K (ketamine). These drugs are often found atall-night dance parties called “raves.” Ecstasy is the most popular of the club drugs. Ecstasy alters chemicalsin the brain causing users to have feelings of love, extreme 9 and peace, hence the name ecstasy. 10 ,there are serious side-effects. Many people have died using E because of dehydration—lack of water in thebody. 11 problems also often occur days, weeks and even months after taking the drug. Depression, anxiety andloss of appetite are also very common among ecstasy users.

         Indonesia has come under heavy pressure from neighboring countries and environmental groups to put out the fires. Every year, some companies set forest fires on purpose. They do this to clear land and make way for palm oil plantations. Thousands of people have developed breathing problems because of the smoke. Some non-governmental organizations plan to take legal action against the government. They say Indonesian officials have ignored the well-being of communities affected by the smoke. The government has deployed more than 22,000 police officers and armed forces members to fight the forest fires. There are more than 1,600 fires burning in at least six provinces.