Cayman: Protect Our Future Advocates for Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect Our Future Amplifies Campaign, Urging Cayman Government to Enact Legislation
Cayman’s coral reefs are in a silent crisis. In the Cayman Islands, sunscreen use is very common, leading to the waters surrounding our islands absorbing the harmful chemicals that threaten marine biodiversity and coral survival. Despite global awareness of reef-safe sunscreen growing, within the Cayman Islands, no law has yet been passed to ban reef-harming sunscreens, leaving our coveted marine life unprotected.
That is why this summer, POF placed an intensified focus on our Reef-Safe Sunscreen Campaign. With our new government publicly committing to stronger environmental protection, POF believes in the opportunity to enact real legislative change. With renewed effort this year, POF is petitioning for reef-safe sunscreen legislation. We urge our leaders to go beyond encouragement and implement a clear, enforceable ban on harmful sunscreen chemicals.
This campaign is critical. Scientific studies have shown that sunscreen chemicals like oxybenzone can damage and bleach coral, even in extremely small amounts. Additionally, research has revealed that just 63 micrograms per liter of oxybenzone is enough to begin harming coral reefs. That is the same ratio as one drop in an Olympic-sized swimming pool. One regular use of sunscreen, a layer on your face or arm before a swim, is enough to damage and bleach the same coral reef you may be swimming over. These chemicals don’t vanish. Whether in the ocean or not, all water is deposited into our sea. In popular swimming areas, like Rum Point or Seven Mile beach, the over time build-up is devastating.
Coral reefs are vital. They are far more than vibrant backdrops; they are essential for our island life. They foster marine biodiversity, including our turtles, stingrays, sharks, parrotfish, and an innumerable number of other species. Ecologically, coral reefs reduce wave force by up to 97%, protecting us from shoreline erosion, an increasing issue across Cayman. Economically, coral reef-associated tourism in the wider Caribbean alone contributes approximately US $7.9 billion annually. In Cayman, tourism and fisheries are not only fundamentally tied to reef health, but also serve as pillars to our economy. This alone supports and sustains many Caymanian families. Environmentally, reefs act as a natural buffer zone against natural disasters, which is especially important as Cayman is prone to hurricanes and storm surges. Protecting reefs means protecting our livelihoods and traditions from climate threats.
As one of the wealthiest territories in the Caribbean, Cayman has no defence for why we are so behind. Other countries have acted; it’s time Cayman does too. Other island nations and coastal regions have already passed legislation to protect their reefs:
- Palau: Banned “reef-toxic” sunscreens in 2020
- Hawaii: Banned oxybenzone and octinoxate in 2021
- Aruba, Bonaire, Mexico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands have all passed similar legislation
- Key West, Florida, also enacted local bans to protect coral habitats
These places recognized that voluntary guidelines were not enough. They made reef-safe sunscreen the law. With our new government, Cayman has the ability to follow in the commendable path others have taken. Let us make their stories of success inspire Cayman to make positive change.
Protect Our Future is urging the Cayman Islands Government to:
- Ban sunscreens containing reef-harming chemicals like oxybenzone, octinoxate, and octocrylene
- Mandate only mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which are safe for coral reefs
- Support local businesses in stocking and promoting accessible reef-safe alternatives
- Educate tourists and residents through public signage, product guides, media, and community engagement
POF’s Legislative Proposal: A Clear, Enforceable Framework
Protect Our Future is calling for a legislative model similar to Hawaii’s, which includes strict enforcement and accountability measures. Under our proposed legislation:
- A $1,000 fine would be imposed on first-time offenders found importing or using non-reef-safe sunscreen in Cayman water
- Fines would double for repeat offenses, creating a strong deterrent effect
- The legislation would apply to both residents and tourists, ensuring that every person who enters Cayman’s marine environment is held to the same standard
- Sunscreens containing banned chemicals would be prohibited from being sold, distributed, or used anywhere in the Cayman Islands
By learning from other regions, especially those like Hawaii that have successfully implemented and enforced bans, we can build a robust and sustainable system that protects both our environment and our economy.
Though our effort is to encourage government action, POF will never deny the power of the people. We urge Caymanians and visitors alike to be part of the solution. Here’s how:
- Choose sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide
- Avoid oxybenzone, octinoxate, and other harmful chemicals
- Use alternatives like UPF clothing (rash guards, hats) to reduce sunscreen needs
- Spread the word by sharing our campaign, videos, and social posts
We do not have to choose between sun or ocean safety; we can have both. The health of our corals depends on the choice we make today.
As Protect Our Future leader, Zara Majid (15) would like to say:
“Protecting our reefs today is how we protect Cayman’s story tomorrow.”
As Protect Our Future leader, Elise Shelley (14) would like to say:
“Sustainability transcends far beyond just coral. It’s about building a future where every choice we make reflects care for our planet and our people.”
Let Cayman lead the Caribbean. We have long taken pride in our marine conservation efforts. Now is our chance to match that pride with policy. By mandating reef-safe sunscreen, we ensure the side-by-side well-being of our marine ecosystems, tourism economy, and coastal protection. Protect Our Future is committed to driving this change forward. Not just for our reefs, but for the generations destined to inherit them.
Bio:
Protect Our Future (POF) is a youth-led environmental advocacy group in the Cayman Islands (Cayman International School) dedicated to preserving our islands’ ecosystems as well as educating the public, in hopes of inspiring future generations to foster a sustainable future.
Instagram: @protectourfuture.eco
Hashtags: #OurReefsScream #ReefSafeCayman #ProtectOurFuture #YouthForLegislation #SunscreenBanNow #SaveCaymanReefs
POF
https://www.instagram.com/protectourfuture.eco
