As a native Austinite and mother to a new generation, I am deeply concerned about the health and preservation of our beloved Barton Springs. This iconic natural spring is not only a cherished spot for locals but also an essential habitat for numerous species. However, it is under threat due to pollution from various sources, including aerosol sunscreens.

Our babies breathe in these chemicals, our lap swimmers can taste it as they take in breaths of air, and it surely has an environmental effect. 

Aerosol sunscreens contain harmful chemicals such as oxybenzone and octinoxate that can seep into water bodies and harm aquatic life. According to a study by the Archives of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology, these chemicals can cause coral bleaching in marine environments (Archives of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology, 2015). While Barton Springs may not be home to corals, this research highlights the potential dangers these substances pose to aquatic ecosystems.

Moreover, aerosols contribute significantly to air pollution. The National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) states that volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are found in aerosols including sunscreen sprays, play a significant role in creating ground-level ozone – a harmful air pollutant (NOAA).

By banning aerosol sunscreens at Barton Springs we can take one step towards preserving this delicate environment for future generations while still encouraging visitors to protect their skin with environmentally friendly alternatives like mineral-based lotions or creams.

Join me in urging Austin City Council members to enact legislation prohibiting the use of aerosol sunscreens at Barton Springs. Let's protect our springs today for our children's tomorrow. Please sign this petition!