Antigua and Barbuda is taking another bold step in environmental protection by moving to ban sunscreens that contain chemicals harmful to coral reefs. The government has announced plans to restrict the importation and sale of products with ingredients such as oxybenzone and octinoxate, which are known to damage coral and marine life.

This initiative is part of the country’s ongoing commitment to ocean conservation and sustainable tourism. Officials say the ban will help preserve the nation’s fragile coral reef systems, which are vital to marine biodiversity and coastal protection.

ermanent Secretary in the Ministry of Trade, Ambassador Dr. Clarence Pilgrim, explained that the consultations will take a comprehensive approach, examining how sunscreen products affect trade, consumer safety, the environment, and public health before a final policy is completed.

“We understand that sunscreen is essential for protecting human skin from ultraviolet radiation and reducing the risk of skin cancer,” Dr. Pilgrim said. “However, the same compounds designed to safeguard people are now being shown to harm corals, algae, and marine life. We must find a responsible balance.”

Local businesses and tourists will be encouraged to switch to reef-safe alternatives made with natural ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Public awareness campaigns are expected to follow, educating residents and visitors on how small lifestyle changes can help protect the environment.

By phasing out harmful sunscreens, Antigua and Barbuda continues to set an example for the region in balancing tourism growth with environmental responsibility — ensuring that its natural beauty remains protected for generations to come.