Victory! AB 1744 Ends "Reef-Safe" Greenwashing in California

California's coast and ocean are among the most biodiverse and economically vital places in the world. Unfortunately, typical sunscreen products – those containing avobenzone, homosalate, octinoxate, octisalate, octocrylene, and/or oxybenzone – have been shown by scientists at NOAA and in peer-reviewed research to be linked to coral bleaching, kelp damage, disrupted fish reproduction, and hormonal harm in marine organisms. 

As a result, one increasingly popular way consumers have tried to protect our coast and ocean is by using "reef friendly" sunscreens. Unfortunately, greenwashing runs rampant, meaning these environmental claims have been completely unregulated.

That's why C.K. McClatchy High School student Macaela Spencer stepped in and worked with Assemblymember Addis to create AB 1744, a bill prohibiting brands from labeling their products as "reef safe" or similar terms if those products contain chemical UV filters. Surfrider was proud to support the efforts of Macaela and the Eco Club of C.K. McClatchy High School.

AB 1744 creates a clear, science-based standard: Only sunscreens using mineral active ingredients – zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide – may carry reef-friendly marketing claims. This closes a significant loophole, empowers consumers to make genuinely informed purchasing decisions, and holds brands accountable for the environmental claims they profit from. Californians who care about the ocean deserve to know that the products they choose are actually doing what the label says. AB 1744 makes that possible.