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), Deputy Editor and Senior Writer at Thred. I was previously the Editor full-time at Thred before moving to Bristol in 2024. I have since returned to London. 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.
Alleged victims will be granted new measures including private entrances and waiting rooms, along with specialist ‘trauma-enforced training’ for court staff.
Andy Burnham has announced the rollout of new specialist rape courts in England and Wales, building on measures that are currently only available in limited locations.
At least one courtroom in every Crown Court will be dedicated to handling rape and cases involving serious sexual offences over the next...
From cutting student loans to stopping small boats, Reform UK used its 2026 conference to tell Britain what its first 100 days in government could look like. But behind the pledges, protests and political drama, what did the conference actually mean for Gen Z?
If there was one message Reform UK wanted people to leave Birmingham with, it was this: we are preparing for government.
Its 2026 annual conference at Birmingham’s...
The value of personal attractiveness is established much younger than you might think. But what does this mean for girls growing up in an image-obsessed era?
We check our appearance around 38 times per day. That pastime was once reserved for mirrors, and now extends to every reflective surface in our vicinity. Phone screens are the obvious preference – whether via their front-facing cameras or shiny black lock screens.
Social media...
Records that were long withheld by the city now reveal that the officials knew about Ground Zero’s toxic air in the years following 9/11 and chose to mislead the public.
On September 11th, 2001, Americans were initially met with confusion when the North tower was first hit. Minutes later, when the second plane struck the South Tower, that confusion quickly turned into fear.
While the collapse of both towers would reshape...
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
