You may have noticed that we are updating our packaging to say ‘Reef Safer*.’ When we started Stream2Sea in 2014, our primary goal was to create a product line that was safe for you and safe for our blue planet. We were the first – and as far as we know, are still the only – sunscreen manufacturer to have products that are tested and proven safe for freshwater fish, saltwater fish, and even coral larvae.
Transparency and Truth in Labeling
The term “reef safe” has become increasingly popular in the marketing of sunscreens, yet it lacks clear regulatory definition. Many products labeled as “reef safe” contain ingredients that have not been thoroughly tested for their effects on coral reefs and marine life. At Stream2Sea, we believe that being truly reef-conscious requires a higher standard of transparency and accountability.
By saying we are “reef safer,” we acknowledge that no product can be 100% harmless to the environment. Instead, we commit to minimizing our impact as much as possible by carefully selecting ingredients, conducting independent testing, and ensuring that our packaging and production processes align with eco-friendly principles.
Scientific Integrity and Rigorous Testing
At Stream2Sea, we go beyond the minimum requirements for environmental claims. We put our products through independent third-party testing to ensure they are genuinely safer for marine life, including coral reefs, fish, and aquatic plants. This scientific rigor ensures that we aren’t making vague or unsubstantiated claims. Our “reef safer” label reflects our use of data-driven research to back up our environmental stewardship.
For example, while some sunscreens that are labeled as “reef safe” may not contain oxybenzone or octinoxate (two common ingredients known to harm coral reefs), they may still contain nanoparticles or other chemicals like butyloctyl salicylate that can be harmful to marine ecosystems. We eliminate these harmful substances and continue to refine our formulations to ensure they are as gentle as possible on the environment.
Continuous Improvement and Innovation
Another reason we use “reef safer” is because we view sustainability as an ongoing process, not a one-time achievement. We are constantly researching new ways to make our products even safer for marine ecosystems and human health. This includes finding alternatives to potentially harmful ingredients, improving our biodegradable packaging, and exploring new methods of production that reduce our environmental footprint.
While we’ve taken significant steps to create a product that is safer for coral reefs and marine life, we believe there is always room for improvement. This mindset of continual innovation and improvement is central to why we say we are “reef safer.”
Beyond Coral Reefs: A Holistic Approach to Ocean Health
“Reef safer” doesn’t just refer to coral reefs. Our approach encompasses a broader commitment to ocean health. The oceans are complex ecosystems with many interconnected species and habitats. Harmful ingredients in sunscreens don’t just affect coral; they can also harm fish, sea urchins, algae, and plankton. By prioritizing the safety of all marine life, we are taking a more comprehensive and thoughtful approach to ocean conservation.
Our mission is to create products that are not only safer for coral reefs but also for the broader marine environment, from the smallest plankton to the largest marine mammals.
Consumer Awareness and Responsibility
We also use the term “reef safer” to encourage consumers to be more mindful of the impact their choices have on the environment. By acknowledging that no product is completely without impact, we foster a sense of responsibility and encourage our customers to minimize their environmental footprint in other ways, such as choosing eco-friendly packaging, supporting ocean conservation efforts, and reducing single-use plastics.
At Stream2Sea, we believe that true sustainability comes from a combination of safer product choices and informed consumer behavior.
Conclusion
At Stream2Sea, “reef safer” represents more than just a marketing term. It’s a reflection of our deep commitment to protecting the planet’s marine ecosystems through transparency, rigorous testing, continuous improvement, and a holistic approach to ocean health. By choosing Stream2Sea products, consumers are not only protecting their skin but also supporting a company that prioritizes the well-being of our oceans. While we recognize that no product can be entirely free of environmental impact, we are dedicated to being “reef safer” every day, and we invite others to join us in this journey of environmental responsibility and stewardship.