Evaluation of Consumers' Awareness of the Impact of UV Filters on Marine Ecosystems

Abstract

Increased public awareness of the negative effects of excessive exposure to UV radiation and concerns about the risk of skin cancer cause a growing interest in sunscreen products. This is especially true in tropical countries where exposure to ultraviolet radiation emitted by the sun is greater. The global use of UV filters results in the appearance of a new class of environmental pollution. This situation raises considerable concerns about the quality of the environment and the impact of these compounds on humans and other organisms. Therefore the aim of our study was to examining consumersʹ awareness of the threats to the marine environment, with particular emphasis on sunscreen substances (UV filters). The quantitative research was carried out on a group of 287 respondents, using the proprietary questionnaire that included questions about impact of selected UV filters on marine ecosystems. Respondents were also asked about their concern about marine environmental issues and actions they take to minimize their negative impact on the marine environment. The findings indicate that Polish consumers possess moderate awareness of marine environmental issues and low awareness of impact of UV filters on marine ecosystems.