“Florida Keys Democrats Endorse Toxic Sunscreen Ordinance”

Key West, FL:  The Florida Keys Democrats in joining with Reef Relief would like to continue urging people to choose sunscreens that are not harmful to the coral reefs. From 6,000 to 14,000 tons of sunscreen slide off of humans into coral reef areas each year, exposing the gorgeous underwater ecosystems to chemicals that can kill them. A toxic sunscreen ordinance will be presented at the January 15th city commission meeting and the steering committee of the Florida Keys Democrats has voted to endorse this city legislation.  “The Monroe County Democratic Party believes that it is important that our local government act to protect our fragile marine environment from avoidable chemical hazards;  this national treasure that is under our stewardship as a community, should be preserved for the benefit of our economy and the enjoyment of future generations.” – Dakin Weekley, Monroe county State Committeeman.

Coral disease is on the rise as well as other water quality issues. Reef Relief is recommending people use “ocean friendly” sunscreens with mineral ingredients which are already being sold in local Publix and Walgreens shopping centers.  Because chemicals in most sunscreens have been shown to cause coral bleaching and problems with coral reproduction, other locations such as Hawaii and Palau have already passed bans on these chemicals. They understand that their reefs are inextricably linked to their economies and that they needed to act to protect them.

The Florida Keys Democrats would like to encourage your attendance at the next City Commission meeting on January 15, 2019 at 1300 White St. Key West FL 33040. For recommendations on reef safe sunscreen products please visit https://www.reefrelief.org/responsible-sunscreen/

For more information on the Florida Keys endorsement please call or email Bert Sise at 305-747-4569 or [email protected]

 

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