Thailand bans on specific sunscreen in all national parks, to protect its coral reefs

Thailand Thailand on Wednesday (Aug 4) has announced a ban on specific sunscreen containing chemicals that damage coral reefs in all national parks, to protect its coral reefs.

Wearing sunscreen which includes the chemicals Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, 4-Methylbenzyl and Butylparaben is banned within the borders of all national parks in Thailand.

The announcement said the studies showed the chemicals deteriorate coral reefs, destroy coral larvae, obstruct their reproductive system and cause coral reef bleaching.

Anybody violating the regulation can face a fine of up to 100,000 baht (US$3,000).