Key West joins Hawaii, in move to ban sunscreens that could damage reefs

[Montanan]

Key West has taken the first steps to banning the use of sunscreens with certain chemicals that have been shown to damage coral. Hawaii last year implemented the use and sale of such sunscreens. There will be exceptions allowed for those with dermatological conditions whereby sunscreens with such chemicals can be allowed via doctor's prescriptions.

The Key West City Commission approved the measure 7-0 on Tuesday night. Commissioners now must review the ordinance a second time and pass it again on Feb. 5 before it can become law.

Research indicates that oxybenzone and octinoxate are toxic to corals and other aquatic life.

Studies have shown that these two chemicals induce coral bleaching, are damaging to coral larvae and act as endocrine disrupters. In addition, oxybenzone and octinoxate have been associated with harmful impacts to human reproductive health.

It is expected that sunscreen manufacturers will be reformulating their products given the environmental issue.

[fabgo]

I am sure we will have healthy reefs again in no time after this ban.