Researchers at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore have developed a pollen-based sunscreen that protects skin from UV rays without harming coral reefs. The product performs comparably to conventional sunscreens but avoids their environmental impact.
Tests showed that while commercial sunscreens caused coral bleaching and death within days, corals exposed to the new pollen gel stayed healthy for 60 days. The team used camellia pollen, which has a sun protection factor (SPF) of 27.3 and is non-allergenic, unlike sunflower pollen.
Pollen’s natural UV resistance, designed to protect its contents from sunlight, inspired the scientists to convert the grains into a skin-friendly gel.
Conventional sunscreens release 6,000–14,000 tons of UV-filtering chemicals into the ocean annually, damaging coral, seagrass, and marine life. Even “coral-safe” products often remain only marginally less toxic.
Experts say the breakthrough highlights the need for stricter sunscreen regulations and shows how natural alternatives can safeguard both people and ecosystems.
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Eine faszinierende Innovation. Es zeigt, dass Natur und Wissenschaft keine Gegensätze sind, sondern sich gegenseitig inspirieren können. Genau solche Ideen geben Hoffnung für eine Zukunft, in der Schutz und Schönheit Hand in Hand gehen.