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16 September: what is celebrated today
The calendar on 16 September reminds us of three essential dimensions of life: commitment to the environment, medical innovation to save hearts and the need to move sustainably through our cities. The day marks the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer, International Interventional Cardiology Day and the start of European Mobility Week. Three different celebrations, united by the same message: protect life, whether through the air we breathe, the health of our hearts or the urban space we sha
International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer
On 16 September 1987, the Montreal Protocol was signed, a historic agreement to curb the chemicals that were destroying the ozone layer. In memory of that milestone, the UN declared this date the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer.
What is the ozone layer and why is it vital?
It is a delicate band of gas located between 10 and 40 km above the Earth’s surface. Its function is essential: to absorb the Sun’s ultraviolet radiation, which is harmful to life. Without it, human beings and ecosystems would be exposed to serious damage.
In the 1980s, common products such as CFCs and HCFCs caused a hole visible from space, a global symbol of environmental danger. Thanks to the joint action of countries, these substances have been progressively eliminated and today the ozone is beginning to recover, an unprecedented achievement in international cooperation.
International Day of Interventional Cardiology
The same 16 September also celebrates Interventional Cardiology, recalling the day when, in 1977, Dr Andreas Grüntzig performed the first coronary angioplasty.
What is it and what distinguishes it from traditional cardiology?
Interventional cardiology is a medical branch that uses minimally invasive procedures, such as angioplasty or stent placement, to treat blockages in the arteries and other heart conditions.
Unlike classical cardiology, which focuses on diagnosis and pharmacological treatment, this discipline offers immediate solutions that are less risky than open surgery, with faster recoveries.
In a world where cardiovascular diseases are responsible for almost 70% of deaths from non-communicable diseases, its impact is key to improving life expectancy and quality of life.
European Mobility Week
From 16 to 22 September, Europe moves sustainably with European Mobility Week, a campaign that seeks to reduce indiscriminate car use in the city and promote healthier means of transport such as walking, cycling or using public transport.
2024 motto: Shared public space
The theme chosen for 2024 underlines the importance of distributing urban space fairly. Safer streets, less noise and air pollution, and better quality of life are some of the benefits of sharing space fairly.
Spain has positioned itself as a leader in citizen participation and permanent projects, thanks to the commitment of the Ministry for Ecological Transition.
16 September reminds us that caring for the Earth, the heart and our cities are not isolated tasks, but collective commitments that set the course towards a healthier and more sustainable future.