Hawaii all set to ban sale of sunscreens toxic to its coral reefs

In a move that is being celebrated by environmentalists, the lawmakers in Hawaii have passed a ban on the sale and distribution of sunscreens that contain chemicals that are toxic to the island’s coral reefs. Two particular chemicals found in most sunscreens – oxybenzone and octinoxate – cause coral DNA mutation and make it more prone to bleaching.

If Gov. David Ige (D) approves the legislation as expected, it would make Hawaii the first American state – and the first region in the world – to ban the ingredients.

“When you think about it, our island paradise, surrounded by coral reefs, is the perfect place to set the gold standard for the world to follow. This will make a huge difference in protecting our coral reefs, marine life, and human health,” Sen. Mike Gabbard (D) said in an e-mail.

Read full news here: https://www.goodnewsnetwork.org/hawaiian-lawmakers-have-just-passed-first-ever-ban-on-sale-of-toxic-sunscreen/