Climate Action
Action Alert: Petition to Help Protect Coral Reefs
March 15, 2019
Around the world, coral reefs are in danger. These fascinating organisms, which provide habitat for thousands of other species and help support global industries with a value totaling as much as $9.9 trillion, are under attack. With their existence threatened by rising ocean temperatures, ocean acidification, chemical pollution, and damage from human contact, coral reefs need your help!
Here’s what you can do to help protect coral reefs. Buy and use only oxybenzone and octinoxate-free sunscreens and sign our petition urging the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to remove these chemicals from sunscreens. The FDA has issued a proposed rule that would update regulatory requirements for most sunscreen products in the United States and is seeking public comment until May 28, 2019.
Extended exposure to the sun’s rays can be harmful, which is why wearing sunscreen is so important. Equally as important is making sure that the sunscreens we are wearing are not harming the outdoor environment we enjoy. That is why it is essential we demand access to sunscreen that is free of the coral-killing oxybenzone and octinoxate.
The Environmental Working Group has found that both ingredients are found in nearly 65% of non-mineral sunscreens. Consumers have the right to protect themselves and their children from the sun without causing harm to the outdoor environment.
For this reason, Earth Day Network is asking you to sign this petition urging the FDA to remove oxybenzone and octinoxate from sunscreens.
