CURRENT AFFAIRS

Detailed explanation-1: -The new research found that corals absorb oxybenzone, and then convert it into phototoxins. These molecules become harmful when exposed to sunlight. The study started with sea anemones, which can act as a model for coral reefs, two of the study authors, Djordje Vuckovic and Bill Mitch, shared in The Scientist.

Detailed explanation-2: -Key ingredients to avoid are Oxybenzone and Octinoxate. Additionally, look out for Benzophenone-1, Benzophenone-8, OD-PABA, 4-Methylbenzylidene camphor, 3-Benzylidene camphor, and Octocrylene. These can affect corals’ reproductive cycle, damage DNA, and worsen the effects of coral bleaching.

Detailed explanation-3: -Oxybenzone (Benzophenone-3, BP-3)-Sunscreen ingredient that disrupts coral reproduction, causes coral bleaching, and damages coral DNA. Oxybenzone is found in over 3500 sunscreen products worldwide. Butylparaben-Preservative ingredient shown to cause coral bleaching.

Detailed explanation-4: -The science on ingredient toxicity. The most worrisome sunscreen active ingredient is oxybenzone, according to publicly available scientific research.

Detailed explanation-5: -Scientists have also discovered that some of the chemicals found in sunscreen and other personal health products threaten the health of coral reefs. How these, and other compounds, affect reef ecosystems remains an active area of research.