Ep 6. Cosmetics, Corals and Contaminants

Mission Unstoppable is a television series that celebrates extraordinary women who work in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields. In season 4, episode 6 titled "Cosmetics, Corals and Contaminants," viewers are taken on an exciting journey to explore the fascinating world of cosmetics, coral reefs, and how these two seemingly unrelated topics intersect with environmental contamination.

The episode starts with a segment featuring a team of scientists working at the Environmental Protection Agency's National Exposure Research Laboratory. The team is analyzing the chemical contents of personal care products, such as makeup, shampoos, and lotions. They explain how these products can affect human health and the environment, especially when they contain harmful ingredients such as phthalates, parabens, and triclosan. They demonstrate how they use innovative technology to test products and help consumers make informed decisions about what they're buying.

Next up, viewers are introduced to an oceanographer, Dr. Kristin DeAngelis, who specializes in coral reef ecology. She explains how coral reefs are vital ecosystems that support numerous marine species and provide economic benefits to human populations. However, coral reefs are facing multiple threats, including ocean acidification, warming waters, and coral diseases. Dr. DeAngelis takes viewers on a dive to show the beauty and fragility of a coral reef and how she and her team are working to combat these threats. She also explains the importance of citizen science programs and encourages viewers to get involved in the protection of coral reefs.

The third segment takes viewers to a marine research facility in Hawaii, where Dr. Lyndsey Fox is studying the impact of environmental contamination on coral reefs. She explains how coral reefs are vulnerable to pollution from agricultural runoff, wastewater discharge, and industrial activities. Dr. Fox and her team conduct experiments to understand how coral responds to different types of contaminants, including oil spills and pesticides. They also discuss how their research can inform management policies to protect coral reefs and the ecosystem services they provide.

The episode concludes with a segment on Dermalogica, a skincare brand that emphasizes the importance of sustainability and environmental responsibility. Viewers meet Jane Wurwand, the founder of Dermalogica, who shares the company's philosophy and commitment to reducing waste, using renewable energy, and supporting social causes. She explains how the company's research and development team works with scientists and other experts to develop products that are safe, effective, and environmentally friendly. Viewers are also introduced to a Dermalogica employee who discusses her role in the company's sustainability efforts and how she's proud to be part of an organization that prioritizes ethical practices and values.

Overall, Mission Unstoppable season 4 episode 6 "Cosmetics, Corals and Contaminants" is an informative and inspiring exploration of the intersection of cosmetics, coral reefs, and environmental contamination. It showcases the work of remarkable women who are using their expertise and passion to contribute to bettering the world.