Coral reefs are a huge part of our oceans.

They protect the coastlines, provide habitat to loads of species, and are a source of biodiversity.

Coral bleaching happens when the coral releases the algae that gives it its vibrant color, which eventually kills the coral.

Rising sea temperatures are the leading cause of coral bleaching. The warmer waters cause the coral to get stressed and release the algae that protect it from other harmful toxins. Once the coral is exposed, it is more likely to eventually die.

Studies have shown that chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate can accelerate coral bleaching.

These chemicals are a UV blocker that are commonly found in sunscreens. Using products that contain these chemicals while swimming in the ocean can increase the concentration levels, and ultimately affect the reefs.

So why should we care?

Without coral reefs, there will be a major biodiversity loss in our oceans.

Tons of species rely on the reefs for their habitats, so without a living reef, they have no where to go and their populations will also suffer.

Not only coastal communities will be affected by the disappearance of coral reefs. These people rely the reef for fishing, tourism, and recreation, but those affects will carry all over. Many islands depend on the benefits of coral reefs, and other places depend on those islands. This is not an issue that is isolated to just the people that live at the beach.

Many strides have been taken in order to protect the reefs, like Hawaii banning certain chemicals in their sunscreens, but that is just the beginning. This is not something that is easily reversible, but educating yourself on the state of our reefs, and our oceans in general, is one way to help.