User habits and public perceptions of sunscreen pollution: A global review and case study of Britain’s Ocean City

Sunscreens are topical personal care products (PCP) that protect against ultraviolet (UV) radiation through UV filters. These filters are of major emerging concern to marine environments due to their widespread use, global distribution and chemical properties, such as high lipophilicity that can increase bioavailability and risk to marine life. Understanding public perceptions of marine pollution is essential for assessing consumer awareness and behaviour. This study includes a systematic and critical review of existing research on the public perceptions of sunscreen pollution and provides an overview of global sunscreen and UV filter policies. We identified nine peer-reviewed articles from four academic databases relating to public perceptions of sunscreens as environmental pollutants. Most respondents showed limited awareness of potential impacts of sunscreen on marine ecosystems but expressed a desire to use environmentally friendly sunscreens. Given the lack of UK specific research, this study also investigated public awareness of sunscreens as marine pollutants, as well as general sunscreen use habits at three public engagement events held in Plymouth, UK between August and October 2024. A total of 281 participants voluntarily responded to a set of questions on the topic. While 89% reported using sunscreen, 81% were unfamiliar with the term ‘reef-safe’, and 55% had never considered sunscreens as harmful to the marine environment. This study provides a foundation for understanding public perceptions and habits related to sunscreen use. Further research and well-designed interventions are required to better understand consumer behaviour and the perceived environmental impacts.