Tourists beware: High penalties for harmful sunscreens in Thailand!

Tourists beware: High penalties for harmful sunscreens in Thailand!

When Thailand's peak tourist season begins, tourists flock to the Land of Smiles to enjoy the sun, sand and stunning reefs. But this year a stricter approach has been taken, particularly when it comes to the use of sunscreen. The national park administration has now banned certain sunscreens that have been proven to be harmful to the sensitive coral reefs. Loud star The fine for using these banned products is a whopping 100,000 baht, which is around 2,600 euros.

This measure is not only a response to the repeated coral bleaching that has been occurring twice a year in Thailand for several years, but also an attempt to protect marine ecosystems. Banned ingredients include oxybenzone, octinoxate, 4-methylbenzylidene camphor (enzacamene) and butylparaben, all of which are harmful to coral larvae, impairing their reproduction and causing dramatic declines in coral populations. It is estimated that around 14,000 tonnes of sunscreen enters the sea every year, posing a serious threat to marine habitats.

Tourism and environmental protection in conflict

Thailand attracts a large number of visitors who are enthusiastic about activities such as diving and snorkeling. The clear, warm water provides an ideal environment for exploring the colorful coral reefs. But despite their natural beauty, the reefs have suffered enormously from increasing tourism. For example, Maya Bay on the famous Phi Phi Leh island has been closed for recovery for three years. It's a clear indication that nature has priority, especially when up to 90 percent of tourists book through tour operators who aim to raise awareness of the issue approx.

To support coral conservation, tourists are now encouraged to use zinc oxide-based sunscreens, which are considered more reef-friendly. Harmful products are even removed at the beginning of each dive and returned after the trip. These steps are part of a broader plan as the Thai government takes measures to restore corals, including closing marine parks and promoting coral reforestation projects.

A global crisis

The situation is alarming: coral reefs worldwide are threatened by climate change, pollution and overexploitation. Sad trends are particularly evident in the Andaman Sea, where coral destruction has increased from 30 to 80 percent within just a few months. These changes are not only important locally. Before the start of 2025, Koh Kradan is expected to receive over 1,000 visitors on New Year's Day, showing that many travelers are adapting to coastal currents despite the environmental risks. In these critical times, it becomes clear how important environmentally conscious behavior is - not only for the future recovery of coral reefs, but also for the conservation of biodiversity and the quality of life of marine species. Experts emphasize the need for immediate action to combat climate change and protect reefs, say the farang.

So let's be careful and choose the right products! The beauty of Thailand's coral reefs depends on every single decision we make, whether it's choosing sun protection or how we spend our time in the water. Let’s protect what we love and stay on track for sustainable travel!