Hawaiian Sunscreens Prevent Coral Reefs – Safer Sunscreen

The governor of Hawaii, David Ige, signed this week a bill banning the sale of sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate two chemicals found to be harmful to coral reefs .

Hawaii The US state must pass a law banning the sale of sunscreen containing these chemicals. The bill will come into effect on January 1, 2021.

"We are blessed in Hawaii to house some of the most beautiful natural resources on the planet", said Mr. Ige. signature, according to The Huffington Post. "But our natural environment is fragile and our own interaction with the Earth can have eternal impacts, and this bill is a small first step in the world to take care of our corals and reefs

The problem

A 2015 study by scientists from the University of Central Florida revealed that oxybenzone, a common UV filter compound, kills coral., Causing damage to the body. Adult coral DNA, deforming larval DNA, impeding its development

"Coral reefs are the most productive marine ecosystems in the world. recreational fishing and tourism, "says UCF Professor John Fauth." In addition, reefs protect the coast against storm surges. Around the world, the total value of coral reefs is enormous. And they are in danger. "

A separate study of 2015, published in the Archives of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology and conducted by biologist Craig Downs, also found that chemicals produce pollution from the environment. 39 Water and damaging effects on coral reefs.

In 2012, Women's Health reported that oxybenzone and octinoxate may actually be harmful to humans , not just for coral reefs.According to the publication, when the skin absorbs oxybenzone, it can cause an allergic reaction similar to eczema and disrupt hormonal levels.Oxinoxate can damage skin cells and lead to premature aging.