Sunscreen's Hidden Threat: How Your Beach Day Harms Marine Life in Coastal Tide Pools

Tenerife, Spain – A recent video by biologist Edu Martín highlights the alarming impact of common sunscreens on the fragile marine ecosystems found in coastal tide pools, particularly in areas like the Canary Islands. Martín explains that when swimmers enter these natural pools, up to 25% of their sunscreen can wash off, releasing harmful chemicals such as oxybenzone and octinoxate into the water. These substances then permeate the rocks, sediments, and water, posing a severe threat to marine life. According to Martín, studies have demonstrated that these chemicals can alter the DNA of fish, inhibit the growth of vital phytoplankton, and even affect marine mammals through bioaccumulation within the food chain. He notes that some of these sunscreen filters have been banned in regions like Hawaii due to their proven detrimental effects. Coastal tide pools, being relatively closed environments with limited water circulation, are particularly vulnerable to this pollution, as the concentration of harmful chemicals multiplies over time. Martín stresses that even some so-called “eco-friendly” sunscreens, such as those containing zinc oxide, have been shown to inhibit the hatching of crustacean larvae by up to 97% in studies conducted by CSIC and the University of Alicante. To mitigate this environmental damage, Martín suggests several simple yet effective solutions for visitors: wearing UV protective clothing, applying sunscreen only after exiting the water, or, ideally, avoiding sunscreen altogether when entering these sensitive areas. He concludes by urging awareness and respect for these tide pools, emphasizing that they are crucial nurseries and homes for numerous marine species.

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