The «Blue Flag» is a program of environmental awareness and protection which is implemented every year, on a large-scale, in more than 40 countries in Europe and other parts of the world by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE). It aims at making beaches better organized and safer for swimming, while at the same time protecting their natural environment, so that we may always enjoy them.
The Hellenic Society for the Protection of Nature (HSPN) is the operator of the program in Greece. It is the oldest conservation organization in the country and has been active in environmental education and the protection of nature since 1951. It is not easy for a beach to be awarded the «Blue Flag». It must meet 32 strict criteria, which have to do with the cleanliness of the sea and beach, its organization, the safety of its visitors, the protection of nature and environmental awareness. Even when a beach is awarded the «Blue Flag», it only keeps it that year and must prove that it deserves it for the following year. The inspectors of HSPN and FEE visit beaches throughout the bathing period and note any problems or shortcomings. Usually a short period of grace is given to correct them, but a beach may temporarily, or even permanently, lose its flag for serious deficiencies.
Cleanliness of sea and beach
Bathing water quality is verified by sample measurements carried out during the bathing season (1/6-31/10), according to the new European Directive 2006/7/EC.
Authority responsible for the implementation of the “Bathing Water Monitoring Program”.
No disposal of industrial and urban effluents close to the beach, without proper treatment.
Sufficient rubbish bins, which are emptied at regular intervals as well as routine cleaning of the beach from garbage, cigarette butts etc.
Beach organization and visitors’ safety.
Regular information to the public about bathing water quality.
Εmergency plans to cope with a pollution accident, with immediate notification to the public.
Prohibition of automobiles and motorcycles on the beach.
Prohibition of free camping.
Sufficient toilet facilities, with a controlled system of disposal.
Trained lifeguards on duty, or immediate access to lifesaving and first-aid equipment and a telephone in case of an emergency.
Care for people with disabilities.
Care for the non-presence of unattended domestic animals.
Protection of nature and environmental awareness.
Printed information and code of conduct for the beach and surrounding areas with sensitive natural environment, flora or fauna. Beyond just simple information, the organization of activities which actively promote the natural environment of the beach and the need to protect it.
What a visitor of the beach can do:
Enjoy this beach with the «Blue Flag», but also help us preserve it in good condition. If the beach deserves the Blue Flag, please let us know. If you notice shortcomings, please contact the person responsible for the beach, whose name you should find on the Information Board near the «Blue Flag».
Some relevant photos would be very useful too. The managers of the beaches, the visitors and we at the HSPN, should strive together to make our Greek beaches ever better.
If his answer does not satisfy you, please contact the HSPN with whatever information you can give us.
Tel.: +30210 3224944, +30210 3314563
e-mail: blueflag@eepf.gr
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