Without the Sun life on Earth cannot exist. We are incredibly lucky that the Earth orbits the Sun at just the right distance and at just the right speed for it to sustain it. It is one of the many reasons some scientists ponder life on other planets as the circumstance for the existence of one is extremely rare. For example, we are just the one out of 7 in our solar system!
However, whilst the Suns rays provide us with heat and light they can also be very damaging. Sunlight is a form of electromagnetic radiation that reaches us at 8.3 seconds. In that light is infrared, visible and ultraviolet light. This UV light can burn the skin if overexposed to it. This is why many companies invest in some Brise Soleil protective coverings ensuring the safety of the staff and the building equipment. We still need some Ultraviolet rays to give us Vitamin D and the synthesis of it.
The reason why this radiation does not harm us completely is that the earth’s Atmosphere acts as a barrier to filter out the most harmful parts. However, with the continuing destruction of the Ozone layer this protection is being striped away. It is also one of the reasons for the continuation of rising global temperatures.