The rush to go green is like the gold rush of 1849. If you really desire to positively impact the environment, one of the first things you should do is get yourself a green sunscreen--one that is made with all natural ingredients.

Traditional sunscreens contain chemicals that can impact our environment. The chemical UV filters, preservatives and scents wash off and can contaminate pools, oceans, lakes and streams when you go swimming. In fact, there is some evidence that at least one of these chemicals survives the sewage treatment process.

One of the most recent studies to link sunscreen chemicals to adverse reactions in the environment was completed by the Polytechnic University of the Marche, Italy. It documents the effects of sunscreen exposure on coral samples from reefs in the Pacific, Atlantic and Indian oceans. This study concluded that even low levels of sunscreen chemicals, at or below the typical amount used by swimmers, could promote viral infections that can completely bleach coral in just four days.

The Italian researchers estimate that 4,000 to 6000 metric tons of sunscreen washes off swimmers annually worldwide. Eco-parks in Mexico, such as Xel-Ha and Xcaret, have already banned the use of sun-tan lotions and sunscreens with oils and chemical ingredients because, according to their website, "these sunscreens damage marine flora and kill fish."

If you are serious about protecting our planets sensitive ecosystems, using a chemical free sunscreen is an easy transition. One environmentally friendly sunscreen that can make it easy for you is MelanSol--it contributes to a healthy body and a healthy planet.

MelanSol is a biodegradable sunscreen invented by Peter Zahner, a basal cell skin cancer survivor. Zahner designed his chemical free sunscreen to be safe for all ages, while being in complete harmony with our environment. "MelanSol is a great fit for parents who want to make healthy choices for their family and practice environmental conservation at the same time." said Michael Russ, US distributor for MelanSol.

What sets MelanSol apart from other sunscreens is that it gives your skin the all important topical anti-oxidant protection traditional sunscreens rarely provide. "Topical anti-oxidants are important because they help prevent the oxidative stress that occurs when free radicals outnumber your body's natural anti-oxidants on the skin," says Zahner. Free radicals (oxidants), caused by UV rays, are the culprits responsible for long-term skin damage that can lead to leathery skin, wrinkles, sagging skin, sun spots and possibly even skin cancer later in life. MelanSol has been a favorite all natural sunscreen among Swiss Dermatologists for several years.

MelanSol is the first all natural biodegradable sunscreen to meet the rigorous environmental criterion of the fast growing Green Hotels Association. "Hotels can now proudly offer their guests an all natural sunscreen that fits their image and environmental commitment." said Russ. "Companies can benefit when they provide or recommend a green sunscreen to their employees as part of their green policy."

MelanSol is made in the USA and distributed by Oceana Naturals. It is available on the web and through a growing number of selected retailers nationwide.