The author reflects on their first experience with coral reefs and shares the troubling reality of coral decline due to human actions, especially sunscreen pollution. Emphasizing the gravity of coral bleaching, they discuss the impact of toxic sunscreen ingredients on marine life and suggest ways to mitigate individual contributions to the environment. The author stresses the importance of choosing reef-safe sunscreens and outlines harmful ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate, advocating for informed consumer choices to protect coral ecosystems while enjoying marine activities.
I was 13 the first time I saw a coral reef. The endless blue of the ocean gave way to an explosion of color unlike anything I'd seen before.
Swimmers leech an estimated 4,000 to 6,000 tons of sunscreen into the ocean every year, and sunscreen has been linked to coral bleaching.
Though we may not individually have the power to reverse climate change, there are smaller-albeit very significant-actions that we can take.
Consumers should look out for specific ingredients when choosing an eco-conscious sunscreen, especially oxybenzone and octinoxate.
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