Topics Covered: Conservation and Pollution related issues.
International Blue Flag hoisted at 8 beaches across the Country:
Context:
The beaches where the International Blue Flags were hoisted are: Kappad (Kerala), Shivrajpur (Gujarat), Ghoghla (Diu), Kasarkod and Padubidri (Karnataka), Rushikonda (Andhra Pradesh), Golden (Odisha) and Radhanagar (Andaman & Nicobar Islands).
- India had secured the International Blue Flag Certification for these 8 beaches on 6th October 2020, when an International Jury comprising of member organizations UNEP, UNWTO, UNESCO, IUCN, ILS, FEE etc. announced the award at Copenhagen, Denmark.
About Blue flag programme:
The Blue Flag Programme for beaches and marinas is run by the international, non-governmental, non-profit organisation FEE (the Foundation for Environmental Education).
- It started in France in 1985 and has been implemented in Europe since 1987, and in areas outside Europe since 2001, when South Africa joined.
What is a Blue Flag beach?
It is an ‘eco-tourism model’ and marks out beaches as providing tourists and beachgoers clean and hygienic bathing water, facilities/amenities, a safe and healthy environment, and sustainable development of the area.
Criteria:
There are nearly 33 criteria that must be met to qualify for a Blue Flag certification, such as the water meeting certain quality standards, having waste disposal facilities, being disabled- friendly, have first aid equipment, and no access to pets in the main areas of the beach. Some criteria are voluntary and some compulsory.
Relevant facts for Prelims:
- Spain tops the list with more than 560 such beaches; Greece and France follow.
- India is now in the league of 50 “BLUE FLAG” countries.
Is Blue Flag certification available only for beaches?
No. It can be given to a beach, marina, or sustainable boating tourism operator.
- Basically, the Blue Flag is a trademark.
InstaLinks:
Prelims Link:
- About Blue Flag certification.
- Programme implemented by?
- Announced by?
- India’s and Asia’s first beach to get this certificate.
- Country having highest number of blue flag beaches.
Mains Link:
Write a note on the Blue flag programme.
Sources: PIB.
