Hawaii bans sunscreens deemed harmful to coral reefs

Looking forward to a day exploring coral reefs in Hawaii? Make sure you’re wearing the right, non-banned sunscreen.

Hawaii has become the first US state to ban sunscreens deemed harmful to coral reefs. Effective from Jan. 1, 2021, the bill was signed by state governor David Ige on Tuesday.

The legislature focuses on the environmental impacts of two chemicals found in some sunscreens, oxybenzone and octinoxate, and their effect on Hawaii’s marine ecosystems — including coral reefs. The bill will prohibit the sale and distribution of sunscreen containing these chemicals without a prescription. Read more…

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