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A “reef-safe” sunscreen
Oxybenzone and octinoxate are the chemicals banned in sunscreens in the Hawaii. Because they have been found to be responsible for breaking down coral reefs.
"By signing this measure today, we will become the first in the world to enact this type of strong legislation to actively protect our marine ecosystem from toxic chemicals," said Hawaii Gov. David Ige. "This is just one small step for protecting and restoring the resiliency of Hawaii's reefs."
According to data, 4,000 to 6,000 tons of sunscreen enter reef areas annually. And oxybenzone and octinoxate can be found in many major brands.
While no sunscreen is completely safe for the marine ecosystem, we can look for those with titanium oxide or zinc oxide, which are natural mineral ingredients. Sunscreens that are made for children or for people with sensitive skin also typically have gentler chemicals as active ingredients.
"By signing this measure today, we will become the first in the world to enact this type of strong legislation to actively protect our marine ecosystem from toxic chemicals," said Hawaii Gov. David Ige. "This is just one small step for protecting and restoring the resiliency of Hawaii's reefs."
According to data, 4,000 to 6,000 tons of sunscreen enter reef areas annually. And oxybenzone and octinoxate can be found in many major brands.
While no sunscreen is completely safe for the marine ecosystem, we can look for those with titanium oxide or zinc oxide, which are natural mineral ingredients. Sunscreens that are made for children or for people with sensitive skin also typically have gentler chemicals as active ingredients.