The primary role of the ozone layer is to protect life on Earth by absorbing most of the Sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Located in the stratosphere, approximately 10 to 30 miles above the Earth's surface, the ozone layer plays a crucial role in shielding living organisms from UV rays, which can cause skin cancer, cataracts, and other health issues, as well as damage to ecosystems. The depletion of the ozone layer due to human-made chemicals has raised concerns, leading to global efforts to reduce the use of ozone-depleting substances through international agreements like the Montreal Protocol.