Protecting Rivers from Sunscreen Pollution
Understanding Sunscreen's Impact in Freshwater
Join our mission to safeguard aquatic ecosystems from harmful sunscreen chemicals. Learn how you can make a difference.
Our Research Initiative
The Aquatic Research and Restoration Centre has been investigating sunscreen contamination in Cowichan Lake and River on Vancouver Island since 2019. As a popular tourist destination, there are many people recreating on the beautiful waters around Lake Cowichan – and bringing lots of sunscreen with them. Our project aims to identify hotspots of chemical sunscreen contamination, understand their impact on aquatic life, and promote the use of environmentally safe alternatives. Through rigorous scientific study and community engagement, we strive to protect our precious water resources for future generations.
Guidelines for Choosing Safe Sunscreen
Media Coverage
Related Articles
Cowichan watershed users encouraged to make safer sunscreen selections
Lake Cowichan Gazette
Non-profit groups monitor for sunscreen contamination in Cowichan watershed
Lake Cowichan Gazette
Project Reports
Explore our comprehensive reports detailing the research on sunscreen effects on river ecosystems.
| Title | Date | Author(s) |
| Investigating Impacts of Ultraviolet Filters on the Cowichan River Ecosystem – Year 1 |
February 2021 | Rodgers, T. Atkinson, J. Lattanzio-Battle, W. Vandergrift, G. Gill, C. |
| Investigating Impacts of Ultraviolet Filters on the Cowichan River Ecosystem – Year 2 |
February 2022 | Rodgers, T. Lattanzio-Battle, W. Atkinson, J. Gill, C. |
| Investigating Impacts of Ultraviolet Filters on the Cowichan River Ecosystem – Year 3 |
March 2023 | Rodgers, T. Aplin, R. Monaghan, J. Atkinson, J. Gill, C. Krogh, E. |