Solutions

Some prevention techniques exist that minimize the effects of coral bleaching. One of these is to use specific types of sunscreen. One type that should be used is “water resistant” sunscreen, to prevent the sunscreen from washing off skin into the water. Biodegradable sunscreen should be used as well. Although this is not guaranteed “reef safe”, the sunscreen will break down over time. Most importantly, all types of sunscreen should be checked that is does not contain the 4 harmful chemicals that destroy the reefs: paraben, cinnamate, benzopheone, and camphor.

Spreading information about this catastrophic issue is also of the utmost importance. Getting the word out to people is integral to the problem being stopped. People should be more aware of the high amount of coral being bleached and how it affects them. By becoming knowledgeable about this environmental issue, people can take steps such as checking the type of sunscreen they use to contribute to stopping the bleaching. Although some prevention techniques have been explored to stop coral bleaching, there is still much research that will and can be done for the future.