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.
Israel’s recent military strikes have once again brought global attention to Iran’s nuclear program, raising concerns about regional stability and the potential for escalation.
Israel has constantly found itself in the middle of the most heated conflicts in the Middle East. Adding to this roster is the recent strikes it initiated against Iran. Shocking the world, the first strike occurred on June 13th in a surprise offensive, code-named Operation...
Greenpeace Africa has raised the alarm on deadly air pollution causing many early deaths of more than 42,000 South Africans every year.
In 2023, an estimated 16,000 people died in Gauteng due to toxic air. That represents approximately 44 deaths daily, all attributed to the air people breathe in South Africa.
The document, which evaluates the economic and health implications of South Africa's poor air quality, further refers to the...
Are the environmental tides of the industry turning?
On Tuesday the French senate adopted a bill that will regulate the fashion industry and place ultra-fast fashion brands under the microscope.
The news comes after France first mentioned plans to crackdown on e-commerce giants like Temu and Shein earlier this year.
In March, the country’s houses of parliament unanimously approved a ‘kill bill’ that sought to target fast fashion and ultra-fast fashion...
Thousands of activists from across the globe are participating in The Global March to Gaza with the goal of pressuring world leaders to end Israel’s genocidal siege on the Strip.
Around the world, support for Israel’s military siege on Gaza is tanking.
Though millions of people have started speaking out, activists are springing into action to demand world leaders to stop the ongoing humanitarian catastrophe – even if it means travelling...
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.Ok
0 Comments
