While sunscreens play a critical role in shielding skin from harmful ultraviolet rays, their environmental impact is becoming more evident. UV filters, which are also found in various personal care and industrial products, enter marine environments through multiple pathways, including direct application by beachgoers, wastewater discharge, and agricultural runoff.
Estimates suggest that 6,000 to 14,000 tonnes of these compounds are released into coral reef zones annually. Water treatment systems are often ineffective at removing them, allowing contaminants to persist in marine ecosystems. Research conducted in Hawaii’s Hanauma Bay, for example, found that sunscreen residues in sand correlated directly with visitor numbers, highlighting beach shower facilities as a significant source of contamination.
Modern sunscreens typically contain between three to eight UV filters, accounting for up to 15% of the product’s total mass. These compounds fall into two primary categories:
Benzophenones, among the most commonly used UV filters, are classified as persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic. Benzophenone-3, in particular, is under review by the European Chemicals Agency due to concerns about its potential hormone-disrupting effects. The need for full-spectrum sun protection has led to increasingly complex formulations, compounding the challenges of assessing their long-term environmental impact.
For businesses operating in marine industries, the presence of UV filters in oceans and seafood supply chains raises significant sustainability concerns. With 4.3 billion people relying on fish for 15% of their animal protein intake, understanding how these compounds accumulate in marine life is critical.
Research has already identified UV filters in remote locations such as the Arctic and Antarctica, demonstrating the global reach of this issue. However, studies have primarily focused on a limited number of compounds—benzophenone-3 and 4-methylbenzylidene camphor—leaving knowledge gaps regarding newer synthetic alternatives and mineral-based UV filters. This creates both regulatory and innovation challenges for companies involved in seafood production and marine conservation efforts.
While sunscreen pollution presents environmental risks, it also creates opportunities for businesses in product development, environmental monitoring, and regulatory compliance. Key areas for industry innovation include:
Emerging research indicates that UV filters can disrupt marine organisms by causing DNA mutations, oxidative stress, and reproductive issues. How these effects interact with larger environmental challenges—such as ocean acidification and marine heatwaves—remains poorly understood.
Proactive engagement in sustainable practices will be key to mitigating risks and capitalizing on new market opportunities. Investing in research and product innovation can help balance the need for sun protection with environmental responsibility, positioning companies for long-term success in an increasingly eco-conscious marketplace.
