# Safeguarding Thailand’s Coral Reefs and Ecosystems with ‘Coral Screen’

- Link: https://www.thailand-business-news.com/business/165368-safeguarding-thailands-coral-reefs-and-ecosystems-with-coral-screen
- Published: 2024-10-02T07:34:00+07:00
- Author: Arun Upadhyaya

**Wadwalai Rujipornpong created “Coral Screen,” a reef-safe sunscreen, to protect
Thailand’s coral reefs, promoting eco-friendly choices. The initiative supports 
marine conservation while being affordable for all consumers.**

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## Key Points

 * Wadwalai Rujipornpong, a young researcher and environmental advocate in Thailand,
   created “Coral Screen,” an effective and affordable reef-safe sunscreen aimed
   at protecting the nation’s vulnerable coral reefs from harmful chemicals found
   in conventional sunscreens.
 * With guidance from academics, she developed an FDA-approved formula using natural
   ingredients that are safe for both skin and marine life, ensuring sustainable
   sun protection accessible even to lower-income consumers.
 * Proceeds from Coral Screen are directed towards marine conservation and reef 
   restoration projects, encouraging eco-friendly consumer behavior, while promoting
   awareness of the environmental impact of routine activities like sunscreen application.

Wadwalai Rujipornpong, a dedicated young researcher and environmental advocate, 
has taken significant steps to address the detrimental impact of chemical sunscreens
on Thailand’s vital coral reefs.

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Wadwalai Rujipornpong, a dedicated young researcher and environmental advocate

Through her initiative, “Coral Screen,” she has developed a locally produced, reef-
safe sunscreen that prioritizes both efficacy and affordability for the Thai population.
Thailand’s coral reefs, essential to the global marine ecosystem, face threats from
climate change, pollution, and notably, toxic sunscreen ingredients. Despite a ban
on harmful substances like oxybenzone and octinoxate in Thailand, other chemicals
such as avobenzone and octocrylene persist, alongside potentially damaging nano-
sized particles in mineral sunscreens, which lead to coral bleaching—a phenomenon
that causes corals to expel vital symbiotic algae.

Wadwalai began her journey with the Junior Science Talent Project from the National
Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA) in 2021. Over the following three
years, she worked meticulously on research and product development, collaborating
with Associate Professor Watcharee Khunkitti from Khon Kaen University. The outcome
is an FDA-approved sunscreen formula that leverages natural ingredients like non-
nano titanium dioxide and plant-based emulsifiers, effectively safeguarding both
users and marine ecosystems.

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In addition to product formulation, Wadwalai designed the packaging and strategized
the marketing process, making it her mission to deliver reef-safe skincare options
accessible to all, particularly for those in lower-income brackets. Furthermore,
in partnership with the Climate Change Data Center at Chiang Mai University, Coral
Screen is poised for distribution among tourists and local emergency services, enhancing
environmental awareness and action. Proceeds from the sales are directed towards
marine conservation and reef restoration initiatives, amplifying the positive environmental
efforts.

Ultimately, Wadwalai Rujipornpong’s Coral Screen serves as a catalyst for broader
conversations about the environmental impacts of everyday behaviors, such as sunscreen
usage. Through this initiative, she aims to inspire a cultural shift toward eco-
conscious choices, safeguarding Thailand’s coral reefs while promoting individual
health and sustainability for future generations.

**Source** : [Protecting Thailand’s coral reefs and ecosystem with ‘Coral Screen’](https://tna.mcot.net/english-news-1424971)