The hole in the ozone layer

Join us to mark the 40th anniversary of one of the most significant environmental discoveries of our time, the ozone hole.

On 16 May 1985, British Antarctic Survey scientists Jon Shanklin, Brian Gardiner and Joe Farman published groundbreaking research that revealed the ozone hole above Antarctica, sparking global action and leading to the historic Montreal Protocol.

At a time when international consensus on climate science is under some stress, this is a moment to reflect on a science success story, one that changed the world for the better. Featuring three expert talks, this event will revisit the British Antarctic Survey’s pivotal role in the discovery, explore how it shaped international environmental policy, and celebrate the power of science and geography as a force for good.

Meet the speakers

Jonathan Shanklin

One of the original co-authors of the 1985 Nature paper that revealed the ozone hole, Jonathan Shanklin is a former British Antarctic Survey meteorologist whose meticulous analysis of long-term data played a crucial role in the discovery. He is a passionate science communicator and continues to engage the public on the importance of atmospheric research.

Professor John Pyle

A leading atmospheric chemist, Professor John Pyle played a key role in modelling the chemical processes responsible for ozone depletion. He is the former Co-Chair of the Scientific Assessment Panel for the Montreal Protocol and currently serves as Director of the Centre for Atmospheric Science at the University of Cambridge.

Professor Lucy Carpenter

An expert in atmospheric chemistry, Professor Lucy Carpenter’s research focuses on the composition of the atmosphere and its interactions with oceans and polar environments. She is a professor at the University of York and has contributed to multiple international assessments, including those for the United Nations Environment Programme.

Booking information

• Advance booking for this event is required. In order to book you will need an account on our website. If you already have an account you will be prompted to log in when you click 'book now'. Please create an account if you do not have one yet (you do not need to be a member of the Society to create an account).

Attending in-person

• We do not issue tickets (electronic or physical) for this event. Instead your name will be on a list at the door. Please use the Society's entrance on Exhibition Road.

Attending online

• If you are attending the event online, the joining instructions will be included in your confirmation email.

If you have any questions or require assistance with your booking, please email events@rgs.org