Atmospheric Ozone: From Tropospheric Pollutant to Stratospheric Protector

Dear Colleagues,

Ozone presents one of the most critical and paradoxical dualities in atmospheric science. In the stratosphere, it forms a protective shield, absorbing harmful ultraviolet radiation and safeguarding ecosystem and human health. Conversely, in the troposphere, it acts as a damaging pollutant and potent greenhouse gas, adversely affecting respiratory health and agricultural productivity. This Special Issue delves into this complex dichotomy, exploring the intricate processes that govern ozone's distribution, its contrasting impacts, and the interconnected challenges we face in managing both layers of our atmosphere.

While the Montreal Protocol stands as a landmark success in healing the stratospheric ozone layer, new challenges such as the potential impacts of geoengineering and ongoing emissions of unregulated substances persist. Simultaneously, tropospheric ozone pollution is worsening in many regions, fueled by precursors like nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds. The central challenge of our time is navigating the interlinked future of these two layers, especially as climate change alters atmospheric circulation, potentially redistributing ozone in unforeseen ways.

This Special Issue aims to synthesize cutting-edge research on the entire atmospheric ozone profile. We invite contributions that address, but are not limited to, the following themes:

(1) Monitoring and modeling: Advanced satellite and ground-based observations, coupled with predictive models, to track trends and transport between the troposphere and stratosphere.

(2) Chemistry and dynamics: Studies on the chemical processes governing ozone formation and loss, and the dynamical processes that couple the two atmospheric layers.

(3) Impacts and policy: Research on the health, environmental, and climate impacts of ozone, and the development of integrated policies that address both air quality and climate goals.

We welcome original research, review, and perspective articles that contribute to a holistic understanding of atmospheric ozone.

Dr. Peter Krizan
Prof. Dr. Yoshizumi Kajii
Guest Editors

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