Which of the following is not a problem associated with the thinning ozone layer?

The thinning ozone layer primarily leads to increased ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure, which is directly linked to a range of health and environmental issues. Increased skin cancer rates and disruption of aquatic ecosystems are well-documented consequences of heightened UV radiation levels.

Skin cancer rates rise due to the increased UV exposure, which can damage DNA in skin cells and lead to cancer development. Similarly, aquatic ecosystems are disrupted because many aquatic organisms, such as phytoplankton—the foundation of the aquatic food chain—are sensitive to UV radiation. Elevated UV levels can harm these organisms, affecting entire marine ecosystems.

On the other hand, while asthma is influenced by air quality and pollutants, it is not directly caused by the thinning of the ozone layer. Asthma is more commonly associated with indoor and outdoor air pollution, allergens, and respiratory irritants rather than UV radiation exposure. Therefore, the increased incidences of asthma are not a consequence of the thinning ozone layer, making this the correct choice in distinguishing it from the other problems linked to ozone depletion.