In a first, eight Indian beaches recommended for 'Blue Flag' eco-label; World Bank applauds India’s efforts
Context: Union Environment Ministry, on the eve of International Coastal Clean-Up Day, announced the decision to recommend eight Indian beaches for the coveted “Blue Flag” International eco-label in a virtual event.
- India’s initiative to clean up its coastal and marine ecosystem has been applauded by the World Bank, who believe that India’s strategy for sustainable coastal zone management will act as a Beacon of light for other countries in the region.
- Blue Flag beaches are considered the benchmark for clean beaches in the world.
- The eight beaches that got selected are Shivrajpur in Gujarat, Ghoghla in Daman & Diu, Kasarkod and Padubidri beach in Karnataka, Kappad in Kerala, Rushikonda in Andhra Pradesh, Golden beach of Odisha and Radhanagar beach in Andaman and Nicobar.
- Issue of marine litter and oil spilling has caused disturbances to the aquatic life and the government is committed for the sustainable development of coastal regions.
- The event also saw the launch of India’s own eco-label Beach Environment & Aesthetics Management Services (BEAMS) by e-hoisting the flag simultaneously at all the eight beaches.
- This is one of the several other projects that Union Environment ministry has undertaken for the sustainable development of coastal regions, striving for globally recognized and the coveted eco-label ‘Blue flag”.
About blue flag certification:
- The iconic Blue Flag is one of the world’s most recognised voluntary eco-labels awarded to beaches, marinas, and sustainable boating tourism operators.
- In order to qualify for the Blue Flag, a series of stringent environmental, educational, safety, and accessibility criteria must be met and maintained.
- Central to the ideals of the Blue Flag programme is the aim of connecting the public with their surroundings and encouraging them to learn more about their environment.
- As such, environmental education activities must be offered and promoted in addition to a permanent display of information relevant to the site in terms of biodiversity, ecosystems and environmental phenomena.
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