In 1997, Barbados sought to improve public awareness to protect the ozone layer. It commissioned a printed cartoon series from a local graphic artist. Under the agreement with the artist, the 
Government of Barbados holds the ownership and rights of the cartoon character, Ozzy Ozone. This cartoon character served as a “mascot” and was very effective in raising awareness in Barbados. The cartoon series has been printed in the local newspapers on several occasions. Additionally, promotional items produced for local public awareness and education campaigns using the Ozzy graphic include posters, key rings, rulers, erasers, refrigerator magnets, mouse pads, pens, pencils, stickers, and envelopes. These public awareness items were distributed at numerous and varied forums, including school lectures and outdoor activities, Green Expos, career showcases, and public displays. In 2000, Barbados registered the graphic as a trademark, under the Trade Mark Act Cap 319.
Ozzy was so successful that UNEP sought to use Ozzy globally in its ozone awareness activities. UNEP learned of the Ozzy mascot in a report by the National Ozone Unit, which summarised the 1999 Ozone Day activities. Under an agreement with Barbados, the OzonAction Programme of UNEP/DTIE uses Ozzy in awareness and education materials that are produced for global distribution. As an Ozone mascot, Ozzy has proven to be an effective public awareness tool, particularly for raising awareness among children. The original and modified versions of Ozzy Ozone are shown below.
In 2004, UNEP released an animated awareness video in which Ozzy explains the threats to the ozone layer and shows children how they can protect themselves from the effects of ultraviolet radiation caused by ozone depletion. On Ozone Day (September 16), more than 64 governments broadcast the video on their national television channels, reaching millions of viewers. The film is available from UNEP in English, French, and Spanish, and it subsequently has been translated into 22 national languages by various governments. Several airlines included the video for in-flight entertainment. The video uses key messages and concepts identified in the Communication Strategy for Global Compliance with the Montreal Protocol, which was developed by UNEP to link public awareness to national obligations under the Protocol.
In 2005, Ozzy was busy flying around the world spreading the message on ozone layer protection. 
Therefore, UNEP further developed an awareness package featuring Ozzy Ozone, which includes a new cartoon “Ozzy Ozone, Defender of Our Planet,” three public service announcements for television, two radio spots, and a website (http://www.ozzyozone.org). An OzonAction Education pack including teacher’s guide for primary schools will be launched in 2006.
For more information, contact Ms. Karen Smith smithka@gob.bb in the Ministry of Housing, Lands and the Environment of Barbados; the UNEP/DTIE OzonAction Programme ozonaction@unep.fr;or Mr. Eric Falt eric.falt@unep.org