By now, you’re likely tired of being cooped up in quarantine and the last thing you want to hear, or read, is anything related to COVID-19. Well, we’ve got good news (twice, actually), we’re bringing you an eco-friendly update that has nothing to do with the coronavirus pandemic.
The US Virgin Islands just put a sunscreen ban into effect. Now, it’s not what you might be thinking. They banned the use of octinoxate, oxybenzone, and octocrylene, otherwise known by their catchy and sinister name, the Toxic 3 Os, in any sunscreen products. Why, you might ask? Well, these harmful chemicals, popular components of your average sunscreen are detrimental to the health of coral and people. The ban aims to restore the fragile coral ecosystem in the ocean of this popular tourism destination.
This simple measure will help restore the vitality of coral in the oceans that has otherwise been abused via chemicals for decades. Hawaii and Florida will also issue sunscreen bans early next year to join the fight to protect and restore the coral in their oceans as well. We’ll bring updates and additional travel notices regarding the sunscreen ban(s) as they become available to help you prepare for your vacations.
