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.

http://www.ddinews.gov.in/national/first-eight-indian-beaches-recommended-blue-flag-eco-label-world-bank-applauds-india%E2%80%99s