A report by Anses, the National Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health Safety, has found that some chemical ingredients in sunscreens may harm coral reefs in French overseas territories, including Guadeloupe, Martinique, La Réunion, and Mayotte. Anses examined 53 chemical substances commonly found in sunscreens used in these regions, and 26 of them were identified as posing a confirmed risk to coral reefs. Five of these substances—oxybenzone, octinoxate, and octocrylene—were highlighted for their potential to interfere with coral reproduction and weaken their skeletal structure. These chemicals are among the most widely used UV filters in commercial sunscreens. France is home to about 10% of the world's coral reefs, thanks to its overseas territories, making it a key player in coral reef conservation. The report explains that these chemical filters, while designed to protect human skin from UV radiation, can disrupt the reproductive cycles of corals, weaken their calcium-based skeletons, and speed up the process of coral bleaching, which can lead to the death of coral ecosystems. Unlike some other tourist hotspots, such as Hawaii, Palau, Thailand, and Mexico, which have already banned sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate, France has not yet implemented a clear ban on these substances. Anses' findings were based on field data collected directly from the affected French overseas territories. These regions have distinct ecological characteristics, but they all share a common challenge: high tourist activity concentrated along coastal areas where coral reefs are especially vulnerable. The report also notes that corals face a range of environmental pressures, and pollution from beach activities is just one part of this complex issue. Alternatives to chemical sunscreens are available, such as mineral-based products containing zinc oxide or non-nanoparticle titanium dioxide, wearing UV-protective clothing, or seeking shade. These measures can help protect both human skin and coral reefs. France has set specific goals to protect its coral reefs, including a target to protect 75% of them by 2021 and 100% by 2025. However, these goals are at odds with the lack of a clear ban on the harmful substances identified in the Anses report.