HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0771.483 2020-2022 IC"oun6
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June 15, 2022
RE: SUPPORT BILL 167 Relating to Non-mineral sunscreen
Dear Chair David, Vice-Chair Chung and Members of the Hawaii County Council,
Thank you for the opportunity to submit our strong support for Bill 167, Relating to Dion-Mineral
Sunscreens, to limit the sale and offer for sale of certain sunscreens containing chemicals that
degrade and damage Hawaii's coral reefs.
Research has demonstrated that chemical sunscreens cause severe damage to coral reef health
and reproduction. Marine animal and human life is dependent upon healthy coral reefs,
especially in the face of climate changes such as ocean temperature rise and acidification, that
exacerbate coral bleaching, decline and degradation, and which scientists forecast to only
increase in frequency and intensity over the next few decades. Further, while the aquarium pet
trade is currently closed under court order, millions of herbivores have been removed from our
reefs by this pet trade over the decades. The removal of these key species, which play a critical
role in reef health by keeping algae in check, further exacerbate reef health decline.
Policyrnakers must take all necessary steps to protect our reefs.
There are dozens of reef-safe sunscreen products on the market that are affordable and readily
available to residents and visitors alike as discussed in this Washington Post article from May
29`x', and which references strong support from scientists and dennatologists.
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We urge your support of Bill 1.67 to protect our coral reefs.
Mahalo,
Inga Gibson
For the Fishes
808.922.9910
Comm. No
eF° To:
Ref. Date WN 1 5 2022