Dr. Scott Dyer, Assistant Professor of Biology & Kinesiology, recently received a rare invitation to present cutting-edge research to The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM), the premier scientific academy of the US.
We are proud of Dr. Dyer and blessed to have amazing faculty who are not only wonderful teachers and mentors, but researchers and innovators in their fields and embody the spirit of ingenuity at the Christian Polytechnic University.
Dr. Dyer assembled experts from academia, consulting, and the United States Environmental Protection Agency to conduct an eco-epidemiological study to assess the potential risks of UV filters to corals.
This research was focused on coral reefs which support enormous biodiversity, provide numerous ecosystem services including coastal protection, and support the livelihoods of millions of people. Unfortunately, coral reefs have undergone precipitous declines over the last 40-50 years, including global bleaching events. Many factors have been identified as potential culprits for bleaching, including Ultra-Violet light filters (UV-filters) – ingredients used in sunscreens.
The findings were presented to the NASEM committee on September 16, 2021. Watch the recording below: