When we apply sun cream and go swimming, chemical compounds such as oxybenzone are released into the water. Around 25% of sunscreen components dissolve after just 20 minutes of immersion, leading to absorption by corals. Every year, between 4,000 and 6,000 tonnes of sunscreen end up on coral reefs, while 15,000 to 25,000 tonnes end up in the seas and oceans.
The discharge of these chemical compounds into the oceans weakens marine ecosystems. The harmful chemicals in sunscreens cause environmental stress, which contributes to coral bleaching, a phenomenon that is devastating for 25% of marine life. Corals feed on plankton that may have absorbed chemicals such as oxybenzone and octinoxate. The corals then expel these symbiotic algae (zooxanthellae), which are able to protect them from the toxins produced by oxybenzone. The negative effect of this ultraviolet filter is to introduce toxins into the corals, causing damage to their DNA and increasing larval deformities, in other words affecting their cellular development. As a result, the food chain is disrupted and these toxic substances spread throughout the marine ecosystem, endangering many species.
To minimise these risks, the use of ‘reef-safe’ sun creams is recommended. For example, the La Rosée range uses the latest generation of organic filters and natural ingredients. These formulas are biodegradable, water-resistant and have no significant impact on algae or coral. La Rosée supports the work of The Coral Planters to preserve coral.
In addition, it is advisable to wear protective clothing such as lycra to reduce the use of sun cream.
💡 Tip
Let’s protect our oceans by adopting more environmentally-friendly practices!
Sources
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