Question

Can chemical sunscreens have any impact on bleaching the coral reef or harming marine life? If so, how can people help defeat the problem or is there another reason for the problem in the first place?

a) Yes, chemical sunscreens can harm marine life.
b) No, chemical sunscreens have no impact on coral reefs.
c) People can help by using any sunscreen.
d) The problem is unrelated to sunscreen use.

Answer 1

Chemical sunscreens can have an impact on bleaching the coral reef and harming marine life. People can help defeat this problem by using reef-safe sunscreens and alternative methods of sun protection.

Step-by-step explanation:

Chemical sunscreens can have an impact on bleaching the coral reef and harming marine life. Inorganic chemicals such as zinc oxide and titanium oxide in sunscreen can absorb and scatter UV light. Organic chemicals in sunscreen can also absorb UV radiation. When these chemicals enter the ocean through wastewater or by directly entering the water while swimming, they can adversely affect coral reefs and marine life.

To help defeat this problem, people can choose to use reef-safe sunscreens that do not contain harmful chemicals. These sunscreens use mineral blockers like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which are less harmful to coral reefs and marine life. In addition to using reef-safe sunscreens, people can also avoid using sunscreen altogether when possible by wearing UV-protective clothing and seeking shade.