A new study has found sunscreen chemicals in Mediterranean seagrass. UV filters absorbed by Posidonia oceanica could cause long-term damage to local ecosystems.
A new study suggests that sunscreen could be affecting our oceans.
Chemicals from popular sunscreen lotion brands have been found ‘accumulating’ in Mediterranean seagrass. Scientists discovered ultraviolet filters in the stems of a certain type of seagrass known as Posidonia oceanica, found on the coast of Mallorca.
Researchers believe the cause is likely to be tourism wastage in the local area, as samples included varying concentrations of sunscreen components. Oxybenzone, avobenzone 4-methyl, benzylidene camphor, benzophenone-4, and methyl parabens were all discovered.
The actual effects are unknown as of yet. Scientists do not have any indication on how severe the impact could be, though they do remain concerned.
In a statement, the study’s co-author Prof Nona Agawin said that ‘we will have a problem’ if sunscreen is found to affect the photosynthesis of seagrass. ‘Seagrasses play an important ecological role in the Mediterranean coasts.’
We’ve known for a while that using sunscreen can cause environmental problems – and not just for seagrass.
Certain UV-filtering sunscreen chemicals can damage fish, dolphins, and turtles. Reproductive systems can become disrupted, ultimately harming the development of young sea life.
The conclusion from the study is that, ultimately, more research needs to be done to understand how sunscreens and UV chemicals can affect seagrass meadows.
Agawin added that ‘if we find which sunscreen components are harmful, then we should regulate and provide alternatives’.
So, the news of sunscreen causing problems in our seas may tempt you to avoid using the stuff altogether. However, skin is still susceptible to damaging sunrays – so it’s best to continue protecting yourself if you do decide to head out on holiday.
There are various brands available that are oxybenzone and octinoxate free. Rolling Stone recommends Stream2Sea Sport, Supergoop!, Badger Clear Zinc, and a bunch more sustainable options. Check out the full list here.
Avoiding some holiday destinations could help to keep pollution levels down too, mind. A different research piece from 2020 noted that 267 million tourists visit the Mediterranean Sea every year and warns of the potential harm that accumulating sunscreen chemicals could cause.
We could be seeing sunscreen phased out from our shops in the near future, with eco-friendly alternatives providing as substitute.
I’m Charlie (He/Him), a Senior Remote Writer at Thred. I was previously the Editor at Thred before moving to Bristol in 2024. As a music and gaming enthusiast, I’m a nerd for pop culture. You can find me curating playlists, designing article headline images, and sipping cider on a Thursday. Follow me on LinkedIn and drop me some ideas/feedback via email.
Mattel’s new doll has Type 1 diabetes, marking another inclusive step for the brand. But response to the launch highlights a persistent lack of education around the disease – and the need to dismantle stigma.
Mattel’s latest addition to its Barbie lineup, a doll with Type 1 diabetes, might seem like a small plastic step. But its release has quickly become a barometer for public understanding – or misunderstanding – of chronic illness.
Unveiled...
A leaked email shows the budget airline has been rewarding staff for catching oversized luggage.
We all have a love/hate relationship with budget airlines. From Ryanair to easyJet, these low-cost alternatives to pricey air-travel have saved more of my girls' holidays than I can count on one hand. But they’ve also ruined plenty of trips.
Whether it’s hidden costs or poor customer service, there have been plenty of occasions when –...
The United States Agency for International Development (USAID), which represents a fundamental element of American soft power and is one of the most consequential development agencies in the world, is closing its doors.
While curtains never truly ‘fall’, there are flagging budget cuts, evolving US foreign policy objectives, and a rising tide of domestic investment that are all signaling a slow but inevitable decline. For Africa, it is the end...
The scandal that has made its way up the government’s hierarchy has faced harsh penalties from the EU. However, these may ultimately affect honest farmers.
Back in its archaic days, clientelism was central to Greece. This system saw citizens relying on patronage from esteemed parties, normally political, in exchange for their loyalty or service.
Today, we refer to this act as a class of corruption, and the Greek government has once...
We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it.
0 Comments
