The Importance of Reef-Safe Sunscreen When Traveling to Hawaii
Hawaii is synonymous with pristine beaches, azure waters, and abundant marine life. Yet, a pressing environmental concern has arisen from a seemingly innocuous product that visitors use every day – sunscreen. Traditional sunscreens contain ingredients that are harmful to coral reefs. When these chemicals wash off the bodies of beachgoers, they have a devastating impact on these delicate marine ecosystems.
The solution? Reef-safe sunscreens. Let’s delve into why using reef-safe sunscreen when traveling to Hawaii is of paramount importance.
1. Preservation of Coral Reefs
Coral reefs are the rainforests of the sea. They occupy a mere 0.1% of the world’s ocean area, but they support 25% of all marine species. Their intricate structures provide shelter and breeding grounds for countless marine organisms. When exposed to harmful sunscreen ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate, corals undergo bleaching, which weakens them and makes them susceptible to disease.
2. Protection of Marine Life
The adverse effects of conventional sunscreens aren’t limited to corals. These chemicals can accumulate in marine environments, disrupting the development of fish and other marine life forms. Certain species, particularly those that depend on coral reefs for sustenance and shelter, face a direct threat.
3. Economic Significance
Hawaii’s economy heavily relies on tourism and fishing industries. A decline in the health of coral reefs, which are significant tourist attractions, impacts the livelihood of many locals. Healthy reefs are also crucial for sustaining fish populations, which support both commercial and local subsistence fishing.
4. Cultural Importance
For native Hawaiians, the ocean and its inhabitants hold cultural significance. They have long regarded the sea and its resources as interconnected with their way of life. Damage to the coral reefs is not only an ecological concern but also an affront to the Hawaiian heritage and traditions.
5. Promote Sustainable Tourism
Travelers have the power to influence local practices. By choosing reef-safe sunscreens, visitors send a message to businesses, urging them to adopt sustainable and eco-friendly practices. It’s a step towards responsible tourism, where both visitors and service providers work in harmony with nature.
6. Long-term Health of Beaches
Sedimentation and pollution caused by dying reefs can degrade the quality of beaches over time. Reefs act as barriers, protecting shorelines from waves and preventing erosion. Their decline can lead to the loss of these gorgeous Hawaiian beaches that travelers come from all over the world to see.
7. Safety for Personal Health
It’s not just marine life that suffers from the chemicals in sunscreens. Some ingredients in non-reef-safe sunscreens can penetrate the skin and enter the bloodstream, leading to potential health risks. Opting for natural, mineral-based sunscreens not only protects the environment but also might be a healthier choice for individuals.
8. Legal Mandate
In a landmark decision in 2018, Hawaii became the first US state to ban the sale of sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate, effective from January 1, 2021. While this ban significantly reduces the volume of harmful sunscreens entering Hawaiian waters, visitors should remain vigilant about the products they bring with them.
9. Setting a Global Precedent
The decision to prioritize the environment, even if it means curbing popular products, sets a powerful precedent. Tourists who opt for reef-safe sunscreens in Hawaii are likely to carry that awareness back home, influencing their own communities and pushing for similar eco-friendly initiatives worldwide.
10. Supporting Responsible Brands
Many brands have taken the initiative to produce sunscreens that are both effective and eco-friendly. By choosing to buy these products, travelers are supporting businesses that prioritize the planet. This, in turn, encourages more brands to invest in eco-friendly formulations, benefiting both the environment and consumers in the long run.
A Simple Yet Effective Way Of Preserving This Paradise
Hawaii, with its vibrant culture and unparalleled natural beauty, is a paradise that we must protect. Using reef-safe sunscreen is a simple yet effective way for travelers to play their part in preserving this magnificent archipelago for generations to come. By prioritizing the health of our oceans and marine life, we can ensure that the mesmerizing charm of Hawaii remains untainted and vibrant for future visitors.
Book A Tour At Hilo Ocean Adventures Today
Experience the wonders of the Big Island with 
Hilo Ocean Adventures located in the picturesque town of Hilo, HI. We are proud to be a family-owned dive shop nestled on the Northeast coast of the island, offering more than just diving experiences. From professional Keiki swim lessons to our exclusive sponsored dive club, we are a hub for community engagement and oceanic adventures. Our tours, spanning 2 to 3 hours, are conveniently available multiple times a day between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.
What sets us apart is our commitment to responsible tourism. Each of our tour packages is meticulously crafted, bearing in mind cultural, environmental, and social considerations. We deeply value and respect the local indigenous communities and the diverse wildlife of the region, understanding the privilege we have in sharing their magnificent land with our guests. Book with us and embark on a journey that not only captivates the senses but also treads lightly on the earth.