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The State of Palau is the first country in the world to ban the use of sunscreen. The measure must protect the fragile coral around the island
The Government of Palau has signed a law banning the sale and use of sunscreen from 2020. In addition, the products for the skin containing certain chemicals are now prohibited, writes BBC Thursday
Some product ingredients are very harmful to marine life and may cause further discoloration of the coral. Palau is located west of the Pacific Ocean and is surrounded by coral reefs.
Retailers who continue to offer sunburn after the introduction of the ban can expect a fine of over 850 euros. Palau President Tommy Remengesau expects the measure to ensure that tourists learn something and do not go away.
The ban concerns ten chemicals, two of which are known for their harmful effects on coral. These are oxybenzone and octinoxate, which are used to absorb ultraviolet light. Research has shown that oxybenzone limits the growth of new corals and has a toxic effect on many coral species.
Bonaire and Hawaii also took action
"The oxybenzone causes coral discoloration at lower temperatures," says scientist Craig Downs. on BBC . Coral bleaching occurs when the temperature of the water increases. Downs points out that coral can recover afterwards, but this does not happen often
Despite the small area, Palau has taken important steps to protect the living environment. In 2015, Palau designated the surrounding ocean area as a protected area. After Fiji, the second country signed the climate agreement in Paris in 2015.
Palau is not the first country to take action to combat sunscreens. Bonaire and Hawaii had previously banned substances containing oxybenzone and octinoxate. However, the ban imposed by Palau concerns ten chemicals and, for this reason, all sunscreens.
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