On 16 September 2026, an awareness-raising seminar entitled “Nature’s Protective Shield: The Importance of the Ozone Layer” was held at Mingachevir State University (MSU).
The main purpose of the seminar, dedicated to Ozone Layer Protection Day, was to raise awareness of the vital role of the ozone layer in protecting life on Earth, highlight the environmental importance of its preservation, and promote environmental responsibility and ecological awareness among students.
The moderator of the event, Tünzala Babayeva, Head of MSU’s Department of Natural Sciences, welcomed the participants and declared the seminar open. She highlighted that the ozone layer is an important natural defence mechanism that protects the Earth from harmful ultraviolet radiation emitted by the Sun. She stated that protecting the ozone layer is crucial not only for preserving the environment and ecosystems but also for safeguarding human health and biodiversity and ensuring a healthy living environment for future generations.
Speaking about the role of education and awareness-raising in addressing contemporary environmental challenges, Tünzala Babayeva emphasised the importance of improving young people’s environmental knowledge, fostering a responsible attitude towards nature and promoting the principles of sustainable development.
This was followed by the screening of an educational video about the importance of the ozone layer, the factors causing its depletion and the measures taken to protect it.
The seminar continued with presentations by teachers and students.
MSU teacher Aysel Bayramova delivered a presentation entitled “One Invention, Two Environmental Consequences: CFCs, Ozone and Climate.” The presentation highlighted the impact of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) on the ozone layer, the environmental consequences of their use and the relationship between ozone layer protection and climate processes. The importance of scientifically assessing factors affecting the environment and preventing environmental threats in a timely manner was also noted.
MSU teacher Rufana Zahidzada delivered a presentation entitled “Green Life in the Shadow of Ozone: Nature’s Invisible Connection.” The presentation addressed the interrelationships between the ozone layer, healthy ecosystems and green living. It was emphasised that natural processes are interdependent and that maintaining ecological balance is essential for the sustainability of living organisms and ensuring a healthy living environment.
MSU student Jamila Jafarova delivered a presentation entitled “The Earth’s Invisible Shield and Our Responsibility.” The presentation addressed the role of the ozone layer in the planet’s natural defence system and highlighted the importance not only of international and institutional measures but also of responsible individual behaviour in protecting it. The importance of raising young people’s awareness of environmental processes and encouraging their active participation in environmental protection was also noted.
MSU student Ziynat Mahmudova delivered a presentation entitled “The Destruction of the Ozone Layer: An Environmental Threat Created by Humanity.” The presentation addressed the negative effects of human activity on the ozone layer and the potential risks posed to nature, human health and ecosystems. It emphasised the importance of recognising the role of human activity in the emergence of environmental problems, strengthening responsible attitudes towards nature and supporting initiatives aimed at environmental protection.
During the discussions following the presentations, it was highlighted that protecting the ozone layer is closely linked to safeguarding human health, preserving biodiversity and maintaining ecological balance. It was also noted that scientific knowledge, awareness-raising and the active participation of young people play a vital role in addressing environmental problems.
The seminar continued with an exchange of views on the topic, and the participants’ questions were answered.
It should be noted that such environmental awareness-raising events held at MSU contribute to improving students’ knowledge of environmental and climate issues, developing their understanding of environmental responsibility and sustainable lifestyles, and promoting the principles of sustainable development within the University environment.