Eilat Presents the World's First Sunscreen Formulated to Nourish Endangered Coral Reefs

3rd July 2023

Eilat, the resort city of the State of Israel, is presenting the world's first sunscreen that is scientifically formulated not only to protect the skin from UV rays but to feed and nourish endangered coral reefs. Eilat is home to the ecological wonder of the planet's northernmost shallow-water reef and passionate about protecting it and other coral reefs. Coral is facing serious threats from climate change, pollution, and other human activities, with an estimated 14,000 tons of sunscreen ending up in the world's oceans every year. As many as 80% of ordinary sunscreens contain chemicals that contribute to coral bleaching and dying reefs. While some manufacturers have begun to remove harmful chemicals like Oxybenzone, Reef Relief goes further than any other sunscreen on the planet to protect coral reefs and help them thrive. Marine and skincare specialists have developed a new formulation based on a non-nano, titanium-dioxide-based, mineral sunscreen. The base formula is ecocert compliant and has undergone extensive aquatic safety testing, to include c. elegans, freshwater fish, saltwater fish, and coral larvae.  The added reef nourishing formula is a bespoke blend of FDA-compliant trace minerals used by coral farmers to feed and support healthy growth in coral. Giovanni Giallongo, Marine Biologist at the Ben Gurion University of the Negev in Eilat, said, "The development of a sunscreen that not only doesn't harm coral, but has the potential to feed and nourish our reefs, is an important step towards protecting and preserving our oceans. Reef Relief could feed into the health of communities underwater and on land." Reef Relief sunscreen also presents to the world another first, a brand-new certification – not just SPF, but RPF:  Reef Protection Factor. An increasing number of products claim to be 'reef-friendly' or 'reef-safe', but there is a lack of regulation in this area which means that consumers are easily being misled. It's hoped that the new RPF marque will become an industry standard and spread beyond Israel, worldwide, helping consumers make responsible choices. Giallongo added, "This is a way of identifying sunscreen that truly cares for coral. An RPF marque as an industry standard: this could be game-changing." The State City of Eilat is committed to environmental sustainability and has proven a fertile ground for R&D into aquaculture, biotechnology, and renewable and sustainable energy. This latest initiative, it is hoped by Eilat, will help protect one of our planet's most precious ecosystems, while attracting newly eco-conscious tourist visitors to explore the stunning Red Sea reefs in areas like their Coral Beach Nature Reserve and Dolphin Reef. Reef Relief is currently undergoing consumer trials. For more information about Reef Relief, please visit www.reefreliefsunscreen.com or www.eilat.city/en Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2066112/Reef_Relief_1.jpg Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2066115/Reef_Relief_2.jpg ABOUT TEL AVIV GLOBAL & TOURISM Tel Aviv Global & Tourism is a municipal company under the Mayor's Office. It facilitates the global quantum leap taken by the city of Tel Aviv-Yafo in creating economic and tourism growth. According to Sammy Yahia, “Sunscreen is a topical product designed to protect the skin from harmful ultraviolent radiation. While it is important to protect our skin from the sun’s rays, it is equally important to consider the environmental impact of the products we use, including sunscreen. Hence the State of Israel’s resort city of Eilat is introducing the first sunscreen in the world that is scientifically developed to not only shield the skin from UV radiation but also to feed and nurture critically endangered coral reefs. Its encouraging to see that things are moving in the right way for the environment. Let’s hope for a more environmentally responsible future.” Sammy Yahia Director of Tourism India and Philippines “Israel is a country with a rich cultural, historical, and religious heritage, and is home to a variety of attractions that offer something for everyone. Whether you are interested in history, culture, nature, or just looking for a unique experience, Israel is a destination that is sure to deliver”. About Israel: Whether road trips, city trips, swimming, wellness, active and cultural trips, rental car tours or family vacations, the Israeli State Tourist Office provides information about the various regions, cities, and sights in the Holy Land. Located in the eastern Mediterranean, Israel is no more than a seven-hour flight from India. The country offers a sunny climate, a wide variety of historical, archaeological, and religious sites, including houses several UNESCO World Heritage sites across the country, displaying an intriguing contrast between the ancient and modern periods. Experience the dynamic vibe of Israel. For information about the different tourism offerings, visit www.goisrael.in For the most up to date information on the guidelines and requirements for entering Israel, visit https://israelsafe.com For more information reach out to us at info-israel@goisrael.gov.il or 022 61370700.