What is the primary environmental concern associated with ozone?

The primary environmental concern associated with ozone is that it leads to respiratory irritation and smog. Ozone occurs both in the stratosphere, where it plays a crucial role in protecting the Earth from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation, and at ground level, where it is considered a pollutant. At lower altitudes, it forms as a result of chemical reactions between volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) in the presence of sunlight. This ground-level ozone is harmful to human health, as it can cause or exacerbate respiratory problems, trigger asthma attacks, and lead to various other health issues. Additionally, elevated levels of ozone can harm vegetation, reducing agricultural productivity and impacting ecosystems. Thus, the primary environmental concern revolves around its negative effects on air quality and public health.