Two more new Indian beaches– Kovalam in Tamil Nadu and Eden in Puducherry received Blue Flag Certification from Foundation for Environment Education in Denmark (FEE).
- It also issued re-certification for 8 nominated beaches Shivrajpur-Gujarat, Ghoghla-Diu, Kasarkod and Padubidri-Karnataka, Kappad-Kerala, Rushikonda- Andhra Pradesh, Golden-Odisha and Radhanagar- Andaman and Nicobar, which were awarded the Blue Flag certificate in 2020.
- The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) undertook Beach Environment & Aesthetics Management Services (BEAMS) under its integrated coastal zone management (ICZM) for the sustainable development of the coastal regions of India
- With a prime objective to protect, conserve the pristine coastal and marine ecosystems.
Achievements of BEAMS
i. It restored and nourished sand dune in 95,000 Sqm (approx.) with native plantation.
ii.It reduced marine litter by 85 % and marine plastic by 78%
iii.It helped to improve cleanliness level from “C” (poor) to “A++ (outstanding).
iv.It helped recycle 1,100 ML/year of municipal water.
v.It increased the footfall for recreation activities by approx. 80% leading to economic development.
The Ministry is further committed to develop and deliver 100 more beaches under its ICZM initiative in the ensuing 5 years.
About Blue Flag Certificate
i.The Blue Flag is one of the world’s most recognised voluntary awards for beaches, marinas, and sustainable boating tourism operators.
ii.It is issued by Foundation for Environment Education in Denmark (FEE) and international jury comprising of members from IUCN, UNWTO, UNEP and UNESCO etc.
iii.It started in 1987 and in 2001 European Blue Flag became International Blue Flag .
