Environmentally Responsible Sun Protection

Published 06:01 on 10 Jun 2026

Guidance for club members and visitors, as a sailing club, we spend a significant amount of time on and around the water. While protecting ourselves from harmful UV radiation is essential, some sunscreen ingredients may also affect aquatic environments when they wash off into the water. Emsworth Sailing Club encourages members and visitors to choose sun protection methods that help safeguard both personal health and the marine environment.

Recommended Approach

1. Cover Up First - Reducing exposed skin lowers the amount of sunscreen needed.

Therefore, where practical, use:

UV-protective sailing clothing and UV-protective sunglasses

Long-sleeved rash vests or technical tops

Wide-brimmed hats or sailing caps

2. Choose Lower-Impact Sunscreens - Look for products that use mineral UV filters such as Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide. These ingredients are generally considered preferable from an environmental perspective compared with some chemical UV filters.

3. Check the Ingredients - where possible, avoid products containing Oxybenzone (Benzophenone-3), Octinoxate, Octocrylene, Homosalate, Parabens

These ingredients have attracted environmental concern due to potential impacts on marine ecosystems and research continues in this area.

4. Apply Sunscreen Responsibly

Apply sunscreen at least 1520 minutes before entering the water.

Reapply according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Avoid excessive application immediately before launching.

Use only the amount needed for effective protection.

Recommended UK Brands

The following brands offer mineral-based or environmentally conscious sunscreen options that are widely available in the UK: Green People Odylique UpCircle Ultrasun Altruist

Always check product ingredients as formulations can change over time.

Club Commitment

Emsworth Sailing Club supports:

Safe enjoyment of sailing and watersports

Protection of local waterways and wildlife

Evidence-based environmental practice

Education that helps members make informed choices

Note: This guidance reflects current scientific understanding and may be updated as new research becomes available.

Sources: Ocean Education and Conservation, Cancer Research UK, Melanoma UK

The RYA Green Blue programme was contacted during the preparation of this guidance and advised that no specific information on environmentally responsible sunscreen use was available at that time.

Optional Additional Information

Quick Checklist Before You Sail

Wear UV-protective clothing

Wear a hat and sunglasses

Choose a mineral-based sunscreen where possible

Avoid products containing oxybenzone and octinoxate

Apply sunscreen before going afloat

Take all packaging home for recycling or disposal. Protect yourself. Protect the water. Enjoy your time afloat responsibly.

Photograph: Getty