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.
NATO’s new defence spending target has sparked debate across member states, prompting questions about its long-term viability and potential impact on domestic priorities.
Last week, all 32 member states, representatives of the European Union, and even President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met in The Hague for the NATO summit. This year saw the escalation of tensions in the Middle East, the war in Ukraine, and pressure from Russia and China. As a...
The once-fringe Democratic candidate is now the party’s mayoral nominee for New York City. His success speaks to an American political landscape in complete disarray.
Amidst news of missile strikes in the Middle East, the rapid erosion of trans rights, and mounting economic strain over tariffs, climate change, and global conflict, it can be hard to see the light in US politics of late.
But this week marked a cause for...
As the curtains fall on the UN’s 62nd session of the Subsidiary Bodies (SB62) in Bonn, Germany, one thing is clear: Africa is running out of patience.
Hailed as the technical prelude to COP30 in Brazil, SB62 was meant to set the tone for what many hope will be a historic climate summit. For Africa, and that matter, much of the permanent Global South, it seemed just another...
The beloved street party is at risk due to funding cuts and public safety concerns. But protecting it is in our best interests.
Sunday 22nd June marked Windrush Day, an annual commemoration of the date thousands of Caribbean’s were shipped over the the UK in the 1950s.
A large portion of the Windrush generation moved to London’s Notting Hill, where they formed a vibrant community and established the famous Notting Hill...
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
