Sunscreen harms coral reefs

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Sunscreen Harms Coral Reefs

By Amy Bradley, July 27, 2023


Sunscreen helps protect our skin from harmful UV rays. However, it is important to be aware of the potential harm it can cause to aquatic life. When we swim or engage in water activities, sunscreen can wash off our bodies and enter the water, leading to various negative effects on marine ecosystems.

 

One of the main concerns is the presence of certain chemicals in sunscreen, such as oxybenzone and octinoxate. (NOAA, n.d.) These chemicals have been found to be harmful to coral reefs, which are vital ecosystems supporting a diverse range of marine life. Studies have shown that even small concentrations of these chemicals can cause coral bleaching, disrupt coral reproduction, and ultimately lead to the death of coral reefs. (NCBI, 2008)

 

Additionally, sunscreen chemicals can also have adverse effects on other aquatic organisms. For example, they can interfere with the development and reproduction of fish, disrupt the hormonal systems of marine animals, and even accumulate in the tissues of various species. This can have long-term consequences for the overall health and biodiversity of aquatic ecosystems. (NOAA, n.d.)


Microplastics in Sunscreen


It's worth noting that the impact of sunscreen on aquatic life is not solely limited to chemical ingredients. Physical sunscreen products containing microplastics or nanoparticles can also pose a threat. (Yale, 2020) These tiny particles can be ingested by marine organisms, potentially causing harm to their digestive systems and overall well-being.

 

To mitigate the harm caused by sunscreen, there are a few steps we can take. Firstly, choosing reef-safe or mineral-based sunscreens that do not contain oxybenzone and octinoxate can significantly reduce the negative impact on coral reefs. (STR, n.d.) Additionally, using protective clothing, seeking shade, and limiting sunscreen use to only necessary areas can help minimize the amount of sunscreen entering the water.

 

Furthermore, raising awareness about the issue and promoting responsible sunscreen use can encourage individuals to make more environmentally friendly choices. Some countries and regions have already taken steps to ban or restrict the use of certain harmful sunscreen ingredients to protect their marine ecosystems.

 

Benefit vs Risk


While sunscreen is essential for protecting our skin from the sun's harmful rays, it is crucial to be mindful of its potential harm to aquatic life. By choosing reef-safe alternatives and adopting responsible sunscreen practices, we can help preserve the health and beauty of our oceans for future generations.


 

REFERENCES:


NCBI, 2008 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2291018/

NOAA, n.d., https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/news/sunscreen-corals.html

Save the Reef Organization, n.d. https://savethereef.org/about-reef-save-sunscreen.html

Yale University, 2020, https://sustainability.yale.edu/explainers/yale-experts-explain-microplastics

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