Hawaii Bans Common Sunscreens to Save Coral Reefs
In a few years, the majority of common sunscreens available on the market will be banned in Hawaii in an effort to save their coral reefs. These sunscreens contain oxybenzone or octinoxate—both ingredients that make coral more vulnerable. As Mother Jones explains, oxybenzone “deforms coral cells, damages their DNA, and, most disturbing of all, disrupts coral larvae endocrine hormones causing baby coral to encase themselves in their own skeletons and die.” It’s believed that 70% of sunscreens currently available use oxybenzone as their active ingredient, so by 2021 (when the ban is in full force) many brands will be outlawed—including Banana Boat, Coppertone, Neutrogena and more. Find out more at Mother Jones.
Via motherjones.com link opens in a new window
