BANGKOK — The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation has issued a stern warning to tourists visiting marine national parks: using sunscreens containing chemicals harmful to coral reefs could result in fines of up to 100,000 baht ($3,070).
The enforcement is part of the department’s broader efforts to protect the long-term health of Thailand’s marine ecosystems, which have been increasingly threatened by chemical pollutants.
Atthaphol Charoenchansa, Director-General of the Department, announced on October 16 that to ensure tourism coexists with environmental conservation, authorities have banned sunscreens containing four hazardous substances: Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, 4-Methylbenzylidene Camphor, and Butylparaben.
“These chemicals directly harm coral reefs by preventing coral larvae from developing properly, disrupting reproduction, and contributing to coral bleaching, which can ultimately lead to coral death,” Atthaphol explained.
Reef-Safe Alternatives Required
To safeguard these fragile natural resources, the department is urging tourists to use environmentally friendly sunscreens labeled “Reef Safe” or “Reef Friendly.”
The Director-General also reminded visitors to strictly follow additional regulations, including:
- Avoid touching, stepping on, or handling corals
- Maintain a distance of at least 2 meters from coral reefs
- Refrain from littering or disposing of any waste into the sea
- Comply with all instructions given by park officials
Strict Enforcement Nationwide
Violators will face penalties under Section 20 in conjunction with Section 47 of the National Park Act 2019, which imposes fines of up to 100,000 baht ($3,070).
The department has instructed all marine national parks to strictly enforce the regulations and promote awareness among tourists about the importance of protecting Thailand’s marine environment for sustainable tourism.
The crackdown reflects growing concerns about the environmental impact of mass tourism on Thailand’s renowned coral reefs, which attract millions of visitors annually but face mounting pressure from climate change and human activity.
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