June 8th is World Oceans Day, and one way you can help protect our oceans and life below water is to choose ecosystem safe sunscreens. Many ingredients commonly included in sunscreen have the potential to cause harm to underwater ecosystems either as they wear off as we swim or down the drain when we wash the sunscreen off. You can help protect ecosystems by keeping the following in mind when purchasing sunscreen.

Look for mineral formulas. Zinc oxide & titanium dioxide are mineral sunscreens, that physically block sunlight, and are they more inert in the environment than chemical sunscreens. Physical sunscreens are also less irritating for those with sensitive skin. However, there is some evidence that "nano" mineral sunscreens may be harmful so you may want to avoid "nano" formulations.

Look for cream and lotion formulas free of mineral oil or other petroleum based ingredients. Spray formulas can contaminate the surrounding environment when you apply them. Mineral oil and other petroleum based ingredient do not readily biodegrade and may be harmful to ecosystems.

Look for unscented formulas. Scent, in the forms of natural fragrance, artificial fragrance, and essential oils can potentially harm ecosystems and irritate sensitive skin. Fragrances can also contain "hidden" ingredients, like parabens, as manufacturers are not required to disclose their fragrance formulations.

Avoid these ingredients: Oxbenzone (Bensophenon-3, BP-3), Octinoxate (Ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate), Octocrylene, Bensophenone-1, Benzophenone-1, Benzophenone-8, 4- methylbenzylidene camphor (4MBC), 3-Benzyliden camphor, Para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA, OD-PABA), Parabens, and Triclosan.

Additionally, you can reduce your need for sunscreen by wearing UPF clothing and avoiding peak sunlight hours of 10 am to 2 pm.

Utah is facing tough drought conditions this summer, over 98% of the state is currently experiencing 'Severe Drought' or worse. These conditions could lead to worst-on-record conditions and lead Governor Cox to declare a State of Emergency on March 17. Read below for tips on how you can do your part to conserve water.

Indoors

• Run only full loads of dishes or laundry
• Reuse (unsalted & cooled!) cooking water to water your plants
• Fix (or request your landlord to fix) dripping faucets
• Shorten your showers

Outdoors

• Water container plants with a watering can instead of a hose
• Adjust sprinklers so they aren't watering sidewalks and driveway and only water at night
• in calm weather (or request your landlord to make these adjustments)
• Fix (or request your landlord to fix) any leaks or damaged sprinkler heads
• Follow the Utah Weekly Lawn Watering Guide
• Landscape using Localscape strategies or xeriscaping
• You can find more tips at the Slow the Flow website.

Expand your knowledge of sustainability and interconnected topics by enrolling in one of the many sustainability-focused or -inclusive courses that UVU is offering during the Fall 2021 semester. From community health, to civil engineering, to business management UVU is proud to offer a wide range of courses to help you learn more about sustainability.