The adverse effects that some sunscreens and tanning oils have on coral reefs are well documented. But now, researchers in Israel are working on a sunscreen formulation that not only doesn’t harm corals, but they also want it to actually feed them too.
Tourists use between 16,000 and 25,000 tonnes of sunscreen each year in tropical regions, potentially releasing between 4,000 and 6,000 tonnes of sunscreen into reef areas, according to the findings of a study published in the scientific journal Environmental Health Perspectives.
Now the resort city of Eilat in Israel, on the shores of the Red Sea wants the adoption of an international standard assessing the impact of sunscreen products on coral reefs.
While it is totally inadvisable to stop protecting ourselves from the harmful effects of the sun’s ultraviolet rays many brands are now working to offer sun protection products claiming a lower impact on the marine environment. This includes eliminating some UV filters, such as oxybenzone and octinoxate.
The seaside town has commissioned scientists and skin care experts to develop a new formulation based on non-nano, titanium-dioxide-based, mineral sunscreen.
PremiumBeautyNews.com says the base formula is Ecocert compliant and has undergone extensive aquatic safety testing, and that the added reef nourishing formula is a bespoke blend of FDA-compliant trace minerals used by coral farmers to feed and support healthy growth in coral.
We recommend mixing in some Amino Acids and Reef Roids for good measure!
“The development of a sunscreen that not only doesn’t harm coral but has the potential to feed and nourish our reefs, is an important step towards protecting and preserving our oceans,” said Giovanni Giallongo, Marine Biologist at the Ben Gurion University of the Negev in Eilat.
Premium Beauty News says that last year, a class action lawsuit was launched in the United States against Australian brand Bondi Sands over alleged false claims in relation to reef protection. Other actions have been launched on a similar basis against several other manufacturers.
