How to Be Eco-Friendly at the Beach: 3 Basic Tips to Follow

There's nothing quite like spending a day at the beach to soak up the sun, sand, and surf in summer. However, it's important to remember that our actions at the beach can have a significant impact on the environment. After all, the beach is not just open to human beings, it also has its native inhabitants such as coral reefs and marine life.

In 2018, Maya Bay in Thailand was closed to allow the beach to recover from the pollution caused by heavy tourism in previous years. From the CNN report, we can see that the restoration of Maya Bay is not an easy task. Only if we continue to take sustainable environmental measures when vacationing on the beach can we minimize the impact on the beach and enjoy it every summer. Here are 3 basic environmental tips we can follow to be eco-friendly at the beach.

• Apply Marine-Safe Sunscreen

Many conventional sunscreens contain chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which can harm coral reefs and marine life. Look for products that are labeled as non-nano, mineral-based (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide), and free from oxybenzone and octinoxate, which are harmful to coral reefs and marine life.

• Carry Reusable Beach Essentials

Using sunshades or beach umbrellas made from sustainable materials like bamboo or recycled plastic, bring a refillable water bottle, a stainless steel straw, and a reusable beach blanket or towel. Support sustainable fashion by choosing swimwear and beachwear made from eco-friendly materials like recycled nylon, organic cotton, or hemp. Choose a natural straw bag or straw accessories as your stylish outfit in the 2YZ Shop, which will also be a little step to support less-carbon life.

• Leave No Trace Except Footprints

While collecting seashells or disturbing tide pools is tempting, it’s crucial to remember that these are part of a delicate ecosystem. Leave shells, rocks, and marine creatures where you find them to ensure that local wildlife can thrive.

If you’re snorkeling or swimming, be mindful of your surroundings and avoid touching or stepping on coral reefs. One of the simplest ways to be eco-friendly at the beach is to leave no trace. Ensure that you collect all your trash, including food wrappers, bottles, and even small items like cigarette butts, before you leave. Consider carrying a small trash bag with you to make cleanup easy, and if you spot litter left by others, pick it up and dispose of it properly.

 

What's more, if you can join or organize a beach cleanup event. or share your eco-friendly beach habits with friends and family, you will do a better job of protecting the beaches. Being eco-friendly at the beach doesn’t require drastic changes—small, thoughtful actions can make a big difference. Let's all do our part to protect the oceans and beaches for generations to come.