The Pacific nation of Palau will ban sunscreens that damage coral reefs



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Palau, an island in the Pacific, is a paradise of hundreds of pristine islands surrounded by beautiful lagoons – which is why the country prohibits sunscreens considered toxic to coral reefs.

Damselflies swim in the shallow waters of Palau Inland Lagoon. Palau is known for its beautiful rock islands, prolific marine life, world-clbad scuba diving and snorkeling. Image from © Ethan Daniels / Shutterstock

Some sunscreens contain chemicals – such as oxybenzone and octinoxate – that researchers have found harmful to marine corals. At present, the Government of Palau has pbaded a law restricting the sale of the product, stating that no toxic sunscreen for the reefs will be manufactured, imported or sold in Palau from 1 January 2020. There is also a law which will specifically address travelers outside the country that brought them, which will not be authorized for any purpose from the same date. The sanction will be a fine of US $ 1,000 per violation.

Aerial view of deserted tropical islands, clear blue waters and coral reefs, Palau. Image from © Ippei Naoi / Getty Images / Flickr RF

Travelers travel to Palau to explore the natural beauty of the islands. The main attraction is diving in the beautiful turquoise waters to explore the marine life. That's why it has become very important for the island to protect what makes it special. At the end of last year, the country introduced Palau's commitment, which requires visitors to sign a pledge upon their arrival, vowing that they would act in ways that protect the natural heritage and cultural of the Republic.

It is also important to protect your skin from the sun. a number of companies produce products that do not use chemicals that are considered harmful to reefs. Hawaii recently became the first US state to adopt a similar bill banning sunscreens containing harmful corals. Travel companies have followed this plan with Hawaiian Airlines, the Waikiki Aquarium and the Aqua-Aston hotel group offering travelers an environmentally friendly option.

Do you want to protect coral reefs when you travel the world? Find out how here.

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