Font size:
Print
Sunscreens and the Marine Environment
Context:
After three years of research, it’s clear that sunscreens can harm the marine environment. Even at low concentrations, they may cause coral bleaching, damage marine life, and affect water quality.
Sunscreens
- They are composed of a range of ingredients, including UV filters that block or absorb UV rays, fragrances, stabilisers, parabens (like methylparaben), and often per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) used for waterproofing.
- Chemical UV filters (like oxybenzone and octocrylene) absorb UV rays. These are commonly found in mainstream sunscreens. They are often listed under complex chemical names (e.g., avobenzone as butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane).
- Mineral UV filters (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) reflect and scatter UV rays. Some newer formulations use nanoparticles for a thinner layer on the skin. They generally have fewer adverse effects compared to chemical ones, with titanium dioxide being less toxic than zinc oxide.
- Both types can harm coral bleaching and other marine life.
Key Highlights:
- Research has focused primarily on tropical climates where chemical UV filters have been observed to cause rapid coral bleaching in various oceans, including the Atlantic, Indian, Pacific, and Red Seas.
- These filters have been linked to coral bleaching, oxidative stress in sea turtles, and DNA damage in marine organisms like mussels, clams, algae, and sea urchins.
- Chemical UV filters have even been found in dolphins and can accumulate in marine mammals and fish.
- Regulations and Alternatives: Some places like Hawaii and Palau have banned certain UV filters (e.g., oxybenzone, octinoxate).
- “Reef-safe” or “coral-friendly” labels are not regulated, and products claiming these terms may still contain harmful UV filters or degrade into harmful substances.
Environmental Impact:
- Approximately 10 million tonnes of UV filters are produced annually, with 6,000-14,000 tonnes ending up in coral reef zones each year.
- About 25% of sunscreen applied to our skin washes off within 20 minutes of submersion, contributing to marine pollution.
Eco-Friendly Sunscreen Choices:
- Opt for Mineral-Based Sunblocks: Look for sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide (non-nano particles). These won’t be ingested by corals.
- Mineral sunscreens physically block UV rays without harming marine ecosystems.
- Avoid Greenwashing: Scrutinise any “reef-safe” claims. These are often marketing strategies with no solid scientific backing.
- PFAS Ingredients: Be cautious of water-resistant sunscreens containing PFAS, such as polyfluoroalkyl-phosphate-esters (PAP) or polytetrafluoroethylene (PETE).
- Spray vs. Lotion: Sprays can lead to particles landing on sand or water, contributing to marine pollution, whereas lotions might have a less environmental impact but require careful ingredient choice.
- Seek Shade and Use UPF Clothing: Reduce sunscreen use by seeking shade between 10 am and 2 pm. Consider wearing Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) sunwear to minimise skin exposure.