[DEC] Blue flag programme

Question 1

By whom?

Answer 1

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

Question 2

What is a Blue Flag beach?

Answer 2

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.

Question 3

Criteria?

Answer 3

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.

Question 4

Relevant facts for Prelims;Toppers & rank of India?

Answer 4

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.

Question 5

Who can be given blue flag certification?

Answer 5

It can be given to a beach, marina, or sustainable boating tourism operator.