What kind of ozone is particularly harmful to human health and the environment?

Tropospheric ozone, which is found in the lower part of the Earth's atmosphere, is particularly harmful to human health and the environment. It is formed when pollutants emitted by vehicles, industrial facilities, and other sources undergo chemical reactions in the presence of sunlight. This ground-level ozone is a major component of smog and can lead to various health problems, including respiratory issues, exacerbation of asthma, and other chronic lung diseases.

Furthermore, tropospheric ozone can cause damage to crops and other vegetation, affecting plant growth and leading to decreased agricultural productivity. In contrast, stratospheric ozone, also referred to as the ozone layer, plays a protective role by absorbing the majority of the sun's harmful ultraviolet radiation. While stratospheric ozone depletion is a significant environmental concern due to its role in increased UV exposure, it does not pose the same direct health threats as tropospheric ozone. Therefore, the recognition of tropospheric ozone as harmful is crucial for public health and environmental protection efforts.