Blue Flag Certification 

Recently, Kerala’s Kappad (Kozhikode) and Chal (Kannur) beaches received the Blue Flag Certification from the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) for adhering to stringent environmental and safety standards.

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About Blue Flag Certification

• Criteria: Awarded to beaches, marinas, and boating operators meeting 33 stringent standards.
• They are broadly divided into four categories:
  • Water quality
  • Environmental management
  • Safety
  • Environmental information and education
• The Denmark-based Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) established the standards in 1985.
• The certification is updated annually, and locations must continue to meet the criteria to retain their Blue Flag certification status.

 

Blue Flag Beaches: 

• There are more than 5000 Blue Flag-certified beaches, marinas and tourism boats across the world, with Spain leading with a total of 729 Blue Flag sites, followed by Greece.
• India: 13 beaches hold Blue Flag Certification
• Chandrabhaga beach on the Konark coast of Odisha is Asia's first beach to get the Blue Flag certification.

 

Significance

• Promotes sustainable tourism and protects ecosystems.
• Protect ecosystems, 
• Encourage environmental stewardship at recreational sites. 
• India's increasing number of Blue Flag-certified beaches underscores its dedication to preserving natural beauty while ensuring sustainable development.