Scientists have discovered that a sunscreen lotion component has been accumulating in the Mediterranean seagrass. Thus, raising concerns about potential damage to the marine ecosystem.
Researchers collected stem samples from Posidonia oceanica at three separate locations on Mallorca’s Mediterranean island. The locations were the capital’s port, near the port of Alcudia, and Ses Salines. It is a “pristine” site with fewer tourists than the others.
Posidonia oceanica is a Mediterranean Sea indigenous seagrass that is available off the coast of Mallorca.
The sunscreen ingredients oxybenzone, avobenzone, 4-methyl benzylidene camphor, benzophenone-4, and methyl parabens were found in various combinations and amounts in all of the samples.
The blame for the toxic leak into the ocean goes to the vacationers and port activity, according to the report.
“This marine enclave is impacted by port activities, water discharge, and tourism,” said Dr. Silvia Díaz Cruz. Cruz is the co-author of the study. Marine Pollution Bulletin published the study, according to The Guardian.
“Since the Mediterranean Sea is shallow, small, and very enclosed, concentrations of UV-absorbing chemicals can reach high [levels].”
Researchers are concerned about the negative impact on the marine ecology
The complete impact of these chemicals on seagrass is unknown. But the researchers are concerned about the potential negative impacts on the marine ecology.
“If we find that sunscreens affect the photosynthesis and productivity of seagrasses beyond accumulation, we will have a problem since these seagrasses play important ecological roles in the Mediterranean coasts,” co-author Prof Nona Agawin was quoted as saying.
As a result, scientists have advocated for more research into the negative effects of pesticides in seagrass meadows.
“If we find which sunscreen components are harmful to seagrasses, then we should better regulate and provide alternatives to protect the beach-goers and also the seagrasses,” said Agawin.
There is a ban on these chemicals in tourist places such as Hawaii, Florida, and Palau because they harm coral reefs. In the Mediterranean, such legislation is yet to come.
