Losing Oxygen

Loss of free atmospheric Oxygen: We are taking out more than ecosystem can put back

- BY DR. RANIL SENANAYAKE

Loss of free atmospheric Oxygen: We are taking out more than ecosystem can put back

The ability of expressing our fundamental right to breathe clean air is over.

The Global Commons of air is rapidly being impacted, in addition to an increase in the concentration of Carbon Dioxide and a decrease in Oxygen concentration. The concentration of toxic gasses and airborne particulate matter in the atmosphere is increasing. While a global compact on the quality of air as a fundamental right, is urgent consideration of its impact on health must also become a matter of concern. he most essential thing for our existence is the ability to breathe. The air that we take for granted is like an invisible river of gasses considered a part of the ‘Global Commons’ or those resources that extend beyond political boundaries. The

Commons of air is composed of a mix of gasses, the dominant being Nitrogen at about 78%, followed by Oxygen at 21%. Carbon Dioxide that is contributing to climate change accounts for only 0.04% and demonstrates how small changes in the concentration of gasses in the atmosphere can bring about massive changes to those that live in it.