Context: Recently, five beaches in Maharashtra received the prestigious international Blue Flag certification, recognizing their high environmental and safety standards. This milestone strengthens India’s efforts toward promoting eco-friendly coastal tourism and marine ecosystem conservation.
About Blue Flag Certification
The Blue Flag is a globally recognized eco-label accorded by the Foundation for Environment Education (FEE), Denmark.
It is awarded to beaches, marinas, and sustainable tourism boats that meet 33 stringent criteria related to cleanliness, safety, environmental management, and sustainability.
Origin and Expansion
- The programme was initiated in France in 1985, focusing initially on European beaches.
- It expanded globally in 2001, becoming one of the world’s most recognized voluntary eco-awards.
- The mission of Blue Flag is to promote sustainability in the tourism sector through environmental education, protection, and sustainable development practices.
Key Criteria for Blue Flag Beaches
Blue Flag certification promotes sustainable coastal development through four main pillars:
- Water Quality: Regular testing ensures pollution-free, swimmable waters.
- Environmental Management: Efficient waste management, prohibition of plastic use, and eco-friendly infrastructure.
- Environmental Education: Awareness programs for visitors, schools, and local communities.
- Safety and Services: Lifeguards, first-aid facilities, and accessibility for differently-abled visitors.
India’s Blue Flag Beaches
India’s journey with the Blue Flag initiative has been coordinated by the Society of Integrated Coastal Management (SICOM) under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC).
India now boasts 17 Blue Flag-certified beaches, showcasing its progress in sustainable coastal governance.
Recently Certified (Maharashtra): Five beaches from Maharashtra have been newly recognized (names to be officially listed by MoEFCC).
Other Blue Flag Beaches in India:
- Shivrajpur – Gujarat
- Ghoghla – Diu
- Kasarkod and Padubidri – Karnataka
- Kappad – Kerala
- Rushikonda – Andhra Pradesh
- Golden Beach – Odisha
- Radhanagar – Andaman & Nicobar Islands
- Kovalam – Tamil Nadu
- Eden Beach – Puducherry
- Minicoy Thundi Beach and Kadmat Beach – Lakshadweep
Significance of Blue Flag Certification
Global Recognition: Enhances India’s global image in environmental management and eco-tourism.
Tourism Boost: Attracts eco-conscious domestic and international tourists.
Environmental Protection: Encourages community-led efforts for beach cleanliness and conservation.
Sustainability Model: Aligns with India’s Coastal Mission Programme and
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 14 (Life Below Water).
Conclusion
The expansion of Blue Flag-certified beaches symbolizes India’s commitment to balancing economic development with ecological preservation.
As India’s coastline continues to evolve into a model for clean, green, and safe tourism, the Blue Flag serves as a global emblem of responsible stewardship of natural resources.