The increasing frequency of rocket launches, driven by the rise of private space travel, poses a significant threat to the recovery of the ozone layer, as exhaust and propellant residues contribute to ozone depletion. Studies indicate that while current impacts are limited, growth in the launch industry could slow recovery efforts made under the Montreal Protocol, necessitating cleaner propulsion technologies to mitigate further damage.
ozone ✓
rocket launches ✓
environmental impact ✓