University of Derby has helped to develop a product that will help protect the underwater world. With “reef-safe” sunscreen claims still being largely unregulated, a new certification, Reer Protection Factor (RPF), is helping to set an industry standard.
The concept was developed by the University of Derby in collaboration with the global creative agency McCann. RPF is a pioneering certification designed to address chemical pollution problems that are impacting oceans and aiding in the decline of vital ecosystems such as tropical coral reefs.
Harmful chemicals used in sun cream are just one of the stressors facing these ecosystems. RPF will now help consumers identify products that are truly safe for the delicate underwater world.
Awareness of RPF and education about harmful sunscreens is now going global through strategic partnerships in key marine regions.
Jon Elsom, Group Executive Creative Director at McCann said: "We believe Reef Protection Factor is a game-changer. We’ve been blown away by the positive reception of RPF, and Coral Care, by all of our incredible global partners.
"Everyone we’ve spoken to has come on board immediately, from tourist boards to eco organisations to hotel chains. It’s not often you get to work on something that can genuinely change the world.”
Amazing Thailand, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) have put their support behind the project and created an ‘Amnesty Boat’ on Railay Beach, Krabi in southern Thailand.
Beachgoers were invited to exchange their sunscreens for reef-safe Coral Care - another breakthrough innovation developed by Stream2Sea in partnership with McCann, tested by the University of Derby.
Commenting on the success of the sunscreen swap, Ms. Worapa Angkhasirisap, Director of TAT UK & Ireland said: "Coral Care and TAT share the same vision, to protect Thailand's natural beauty.
"We actively encourage responsible tourism and advocating reef-safe sunscreen promotes more sustainable travel practices. Travellers using RPF-certified sunscreen is a simple yet effective way to minimise environmental impact and preserve the beauty of Thailand's underwater world - it's an amazing new product!"
Additional global partnerships include Reef Check Malaysia, Marine Research Foundation, ISER Caribe in Puerto Rico, and Deblue Corner Dive Centre (Malaysia) - each playing a vital role in spreading awareness and driving positive change for marine ecosystems.
Autumn Blum, Founder & Cosmetic Chemist at Stream2Sea said: "Partnering with McCann and the University of Derby has allowed us to push the boundaries of what’s possible.
"Our innovative Coral Care product is a powerful validation of our commitment to protecting marine ecosystems, and we hope it inspires the rest of the industry to follow suit."
To further advance the RPF mission, McCann has partnered with Professor Michael Sweet, Professor and Group Leader of the Safe Sunscreen Initiative at the University of Derby, on an education programme.
The programme includes a white paper detailing the research on RPF as well as a children's storybook, Coral Rescue, designed to educate consumers and raise awareness.
Professor Michael Sweet at the University of Derby said: "The world’s coral reefs are under immense threat from climate change and pollution. Reef Protection Factor empowers consumers and businesses to make informed choices that actively support reef conservation – and this is only the beginning of our journey."
