It is estimated that up to 6,000 tons of sunscreen wash into coral reefs around the globe each year. Some of the ingredients in sunscreen, particularly oxybenzone and octinoxate, have been shown to cause coral bleaching and increase the risk of infection and prevent the corals from getting the nutrients that they need. This sunscreen can often be found at popular diving and swimming sites, such as Daymaniyat Islands Nature Reserve.
So, what are some less harmful forms of sun protection?
- To protect both the environment and yourself, wear vest/ shorts in the water, and loose clothing, hats, sunglasses, etc on the boat.
- Mineral non-nanotised reef-friendly sunscreen has been shown to be much better for coral than chemical alternatives, however, these creams need regular application and you should exercise caution as they usually offer lower UVB and UVA protection.
- Use an oxybenzone-free chemical sunscreen; it won’t necessarily be reef-safe, but at least you’ll avoid one of the chemicals with the most evident potential for environmental damage.
