Source: News on Air
Context: Five beaches in Maharashtra — Shrivardhan, Nagaon, Parnaka, Guhagar, and Ladghar — have been awarded the international Blue Flag certification by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), Denmark
About Blue Flag Beaches:
What it is?
- The Blue Flag is a globally recognised eco-label awarded to beaches, marinas, and sustainable boating tourism operators that meet stringent standards of environmental quality, safety, and management.
Organisation Involved: The certification is granted by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), Denmark, an international non-profit organisation working to promote sustainable environmental practices through education and certification.
India Joined In: India officially joined the Blue Flag Programme in 2018.
Aim:
- The Blue Flag programme aims to promote sustainable coastal tourism, protect marine ecosystems, and ensure safe, clean, and eco-friendly recreation spaces for visitors and local communities.
Criteria (Six Key Areas):
- Environmental Education and Engagement: Promotes local ecosystem awareness and community participation.
- Climate Action: Encourages energy-efficient infrastructure and resilience to coastal erosion and sea-level rise.
- Biodiversity Management: Focuses on protecting wildlife habitats and managing coastal vegetation responsibly.
- Pollution and Water Quality: Mandates top-grade water testing, waste segregation, and control of plastic and oil pollution.
- Accessibility: Requires facilities and services to be inclusive and accessible for all, including persons with disabilities.
- Safety and Services: Enforces lifeguards, first-aid, and emergency plans for visitors’ safety.
Current India Blue Flag Status (as of 2025):
- Total Certified Beaches: 13 + 5 New (total 18 Beaches) Blue Flag beaches across India.
- Recent Additions: Five beaches from Maharashtra — Shrivardhan, Nagaon, Parnaka, Guhagar, and Ladghar — received certification in 2025.
