In 1980 a large hole in the ozone layer was discovered over Antarctica.  It was determined that this hole was created due to the use of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) that were used in aerosol spray cans, refrigerators, air conditioners, and fire extinguishers, as well as carbon tetrachloride that was used in paints, adhesives, degreasers, and paint removers, to name a few.  In 1987 the Montreal Protocol was adopted, which limited the production and use of these products and the hole in the ozone layer has been shrinking slightly every year since then.  Some sources project that the hole may be closed completely by 2060, while others are claiming it's getting worse.  I'm not sure which side is correct, but in all likelihood life on earth won't survive without the ozone layer.