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The Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa announced Monday that it has partnered with Raw Elements USA to offer reef-safe sunscreen at dispensers throughout the resort fronted by Puu Kekaa, or Black Rock, at Kaanapali Beach.
The announcement comes a week after the Hawaii State Legislature passed a bill that would prohibit the sales and distribution of sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate, which scientists have deemed harmful to coral reefs and marine life. If signed by Gov. David Ige, the law would go into effect in 2021.
Hawaiian Airlines in April partnered with Raw Elements to offer samples of its “Eco Formula” sunscreen to passengers on all flights from the U.S. mainland to Hawaii while airing an educational, in-flight video, “Reefs at Risk.”
Sheraton said that Black Rock is one of Maui’s top destinations for viewing tropical marine life and vibrant coral reefs.
“Implementing reef-safe sunscreen dispensers, complimentary for resort guests, is one of the many sustainability initiatives the resort has introduced at a property level to educate guests on ocean conservation and encourage environmentally-conscious choices,” Sheraton said in a news release.
The Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa also decided to voluntarily eliminate single-use plastic straws at its multiple restaurants last August and has a partnership with the Maui Ocean Center, which offers guests tips on reef etiquette and beach safety.
“As a resort destination, we have a responsibility to our guests to offer opportunities to learn about Hawaii’s dynamic marine ecosystems, as well as options for guests that encourage eco-conscious choices during their travels,” said Tetsuji Yamazaki, general manager for Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa, in a news release. “We’re committed to continuing our marine education and preservation efforts and creating dialogues with our guests about sustainability, which is why we’ve been working hard to implement initiatives like eliminating single-use plastic straws, offering daily, complimentary educational talks with Maui Ocean Center, and now, providing reef-safe sunscreen options for our guests.”
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