Many decades ago, three scientists reported results of their study of the chemical life cycle of chlorofluorocarbons, or CFCs, compounds widely used in many applications, including in refrigerants and non-stick coatings. CFCs were then thought to evaporate and float away after use. But the scientists found CFCs were building up in the stratosphere and opening a hole in the ozone layer that could cause health problems and possibly starvation due to crop damage. Fulton Schools Professor Brad Allenby (at right in photo), then studying for a doctoral degree in environmental science, did his dissertation on the problem. His work would help lead to the founding of the Industry Cooperative for Ozone Layer Protection and to efforts to address the dangers of CFC use.