Chapter 18: Blue Flag strategy
1. Introduction
The Blue Flag is a leading voluntary international eco-certification programme, owned and managed by the
Danish-based Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE). The Blue Flag is awarded to municipalities for
beaches and marinas which meet strict criteria addressing water quality, environmental education and
information, environmental management and safety.
1.1. History
The concept of the Blue Flag was developed in France in 1985, where coastal municipalities were awarded
the Blue Flag after meeting certain sewage treatment and bathing water quality criteria. In 1987 FEE
proposed the concept of the Blue Flag to the European Commission, leading to the launching of the Blue Flag
programme as one of the community activities. Gradually the programme was adopted in a number of
countries outside Europe, including Morocco, Tunisia, New Zealand, Brazil, Canada and the Caribbean. In
2001 South Africa became the first county outside Europe to be awarded the Blue Flag.
1.2. Blue Flag in the City of Cape Town
In South Africa, the Blue Flag programme is managed by the Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa
(WESSA). The implementation of the Blue Flag beach programme is carried out by participating local
authorities and marina managers along the coast of South Africa.
The City of Cape Town’s (City) inaugural participation in the Blue Flag programme was in 2003, with three
beaches, namely Bikini, Mnandi, and Clifton 4th, awarded Blue Flag pilot status and subsequently achieving
full status in 2004. Since then, the City’s Blue Flag programme has grown steadily and by 2013 eight City
beaches and two marinas were participating in the Blue Flag programme, namely Bikini beach, Camps Bay
th
beach, Clifton 4 beach, Llandudno beach, Mnandi beach, Muizenberg beach, Silwerstroom Strand,
Strandfontein, False Bay Yacht Club and the Granger Bay Water Club (Annexure 1)
2. Vision and Aims
To position the City as a leading coastal destination through the provision of world-class recreational beach
amenities, by:
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Ensuring close alignment with the vision and criteria of the international Blue Flag programme;
Ensuring strict compliance with Blue Flag criteria as established by FEE and as enforced by WESSA;
Expressing the City’s commitment to the Blue Flag through:
o Promoting and facilitating community involvement and benefit;
o Using Environmental Education as a key means towards achieving and retaining Blue Flag status.
o Providing a safe and healthy environment;
o Ensuring the protection of the natural coastal environment;
o Promoting the City’s coastline and its beaches as a major tourist attraction; and
o Promoting the City’s coastline as an important contributor to its economic prosperity.
3. Blue Flag Season
The City’s Blue Flag season falls within the main summer holiday period – the Blue Flag season starts on 1
December and ends on 31 March each year.
WESSA requires that the duration of a Blue Flag season for a municipality or beach exceeds one month. This
being said, the City may deviate from its four month schedule where it deems necessary, based on availability
of capacity and resources, beach user trends, climate and season considerations. As such, Llandudno has a
two month season (1 December to 31 January) , while Silwerstroom has a one month season (1 to 31
December).
4. Features of a Blue Flag beach
In order to offer beach users a complete and satisfactory experience, the City strives to ensure the provision
of key facilities and services, including, but not limited to those indicated here. These facilities and services
ensure the implementation of and compliance with the Blue Flag Criteria, as administered and enforced by
WESSA.
4.1. Facilities and equipment
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First aid equipment and facilities;
Visible appropriate signage, including the Blue Flag Information Board, displaying a beach map, water
quality results, rules and regulations and contact details for information and emergencies;
Blue Flag and WESSA flags;
Appropriate lifesaving flags;
Special parking for emergency vehicles;
Parking for people with disabilities;
Wheelchair ramps (where possible – at least one beach in the municipality must provide a wheelchair
ramp);
Well-managed ablution facilities, to include a baby-changing station and soap and paper towel
dispensers;
Appropriate and safe, well-managed ablution facilities for people with disabilities;
Information centre;
Lifeguard facility;
Law Enforcement office; and
Beach Manager’s office.
4.2. Services
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Water Quality: Weekly bathing water quality monitoring (according to set Blue Flag Criteria) and on-site
display of up-to-date water quality results on the Blue Flag Information Board.
Security: Deployment of security guards or law enforcement officers.
Safety: Deployment of qualified and well-trained (according to Lifesaving South Africa’s standards)
lifeguards. If deployment of lifeguards is not possible, then the provision of on-site lifesaving response kits
is acceptable.
Beach Wheelchairs: Provided at beaches with the appropriate and necessary infrastructure in accordance
with the City’s Operational Manual for the Use of Beach Wheelchairs.
Environmental Management and Environmental Education
Blue Flag has recently been extended to marina’s. The City has recently added Harbour Island as a Blue Flag
Marina (See Annexure 2 for detail on the Blue Flag Marina checklist)
5. Roles and Responsibilities
5.1. Cooperative Governance
The City’s Blue Flag programme is led by the Sport, Recreation and Amenities Department (SRA). In order to
ensure compliance with Blue Flag criteria and requirements, SRA enlists the services of other City line
functions, through the signing of Service Level Agreements with such line functions. In addition to City line
functions, SRA facilitates the provision of lifesaving services through collaboration and partnership with
Lifesaving Western Province.
5.2. Specific Services
5.2.1. Sport, Recreation and Amenities Department
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Lead City’s participation in Blue Flag, including compilation and submission of Blue Flag application
forms, introduction of new beaches to the Blue Flag programme, convening of Blue Flag Committee
meetings;
Coordinate and ensure all necessary services are provided by relevant line functions;
Provide the necessary facilities and signage;
Serve as the central point of communication with respect to City Blue Flag matters;
Ensure and facilitate the provision of lifeguards;
Where law enforcement is not available, deploy private security guards;
Provide the necessary beach management staff, including seasonal staff.
Pollution abatement and incident management at Blue Flag beaches
5.2.2.
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Ensure a high-standard waste management programme according to a set waste removal schedule;
Provide a waste-removal schedule to beach managers, outlining the following:
o waste removal from beach and parking areas;
o removal of beach-cast kelp;
o that the following shifts are adhered to: 7h00 – 15h30; 12h00 – 20h00
Removal of dead animals.
Ensure a high standard of waste removal within the local contributing catchment
5.2.3.
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Scientific Services
Collection and testing of water samples;
Interpretation of data;
Making water quality results available to beach managers;
Maintenance of water quality datasets;
Provide annual training for beach management officials.
5.2.4.
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Solid Waste Management
Law Enforcement
Maintaining a visible presence during Blue Flag hours, 10h00 – 18h00;
Ensuring officers report for duty during the set Blue Flag season and hours;
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Ensure that all officers are appropriately identifiable and are equipped with the necessary tools and
equipment.
5.2.5
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Designing an environmental education and information programme for the City’s Blue Flag beaches
and marinas each year;
Compiling a budget and ensuring the resourcing of the budget;
Ensuring programmes are rolled out in accordance with Blue Flag requirements;
Promoting, participating in and/or advising on ongoing public awareness campaigns with respect to
Blue Flag and responsible beach amenities utilisation.
5.2.6.
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Lifesaving Western Province
Ensuring the provision of well-trained, certified lifeguards to Blue Flag beaches, in accordance with
Blue Flag requirements;
Facilitating and ensuring lifeguards are equipped with all the necessary lifesaving equipment;
Ensuring lifeguards are present on Blue Flag beaches, during Blue Flag season, from 10h00 until
18h00;
Upon request, presenting lessons on safe and responsible beach use, during environmental
education and information programmes.
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Environmental Resource Management
Tourism Department
Provide co-funding and support for the running of the Blue Flag EE programmes on the eight beaches
each season.
Beach Selection Process
The City must aspire to manage all its public recreational beaches to standards espoused by Blue Flag. It is
acknowledged that, due to limited resources, all recreational beaches cannot participate in Blue Flag. Where
the City considers introducing a new beach to the Blue Flag programme, a process based on a set of
guidelines must be followed (refer to Annexure 3 for details on Blue Flag Beach checlist)
6.1. Guidelines for selection of a new beach
6.1.1.
Spatial distribution
a)
The City must strive to accomplish an even spatial distribution of Blue Flag beaches along its
coastline;
The spatial distribution of Blue Flag beaches must promote the equitable accessibility to all its
communities; and
The spatial distribution of Blue Flag beaches must be seen to enhance the economic integrity of
the area in question.
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6.1.2. Water quality
a)
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The Blue Flag programme lists water quality as the overriding criterion for the selection of a
candidate;
ii) The City’s routine coastal water quality monitoring programme must be used as a guideline
when selecting a candidate beach; and
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iii) The geographical location of the beach must take into account logistical feasibility for the
practicable, viable and sustainable collection and delivery of water samples for water quality
testing.
6.1.3.
Strategic Planning
a)
To grow the Blue Flag programme, a steady, cautious and systematic approach must be
followed;
ii) Before selecting a candidate beach, the City must be satisfied with the management of the
beaches already participating in the Blue Flag programme; and
iii) After five years, the City must assess its performance with respect to the management of Blue
Flag beaches.
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7.
Operational performance monitoring
7.1. Minimum Standards
In addition to complying with the Blue Flag Criteria, in order to ensure a successful Blue Flag programme,
during each Blue Flag season, the City must strive towards maintaining the following minimum standards:
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Zero forced lowering of the Blue Flag by WESSA;
Zero permanent withdrawal of the Blue Flag status by WESSA;
Zero public misconduct incidences, especially alcohol-related incidences;
Zero drowning incidences during Blue Flag hours – 10h00 to 18h00;
Maintain a Level 1 cleanliness standard; and
Provide at least five environmental education and information programmes per Blue Flag beach.
7.2. Control Measures
In order to meet the above-mentioned minimum standards, the City must implement the following control
measures:
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Convene a Blue Flag pre- season meeting with all participating line functions and services;
Conduct a Blue Flag pre- season inspection, in accordance with the Blue Flag Checklist (Annexure 3);
Convene monthly Blue Flag Committee meetings during the Blue Flag season – that is, 1 December to 31
March;
Conduct surveys to gauge the public’s opinion of and attitudes towards the City’s Blue Flag programme;
and
Conduct research on economic viability, opportunities and benefits for each beach, once every five years.
Annexure 1: Blue Flag Beaches and Marinas 2013/14
ANNEXURE 2
BLUE FLAG MARINA CRITERIA
AND EXPLANATORY NOTES
2014
INTRODUCTION
The Blue Flag Programme for marinas and beaches is run by the non-governmental, non-profit
organisation FEE (Foundation for Environmental Education). The Blue Flag programme was
started in France in 1985. It has been operating in Europe since 1987 and in areas outside of
Europe since 2001, when South Africa joined. Today, Blue Flag has become a truly global
programme with an ever-increasing number of countries participating in the programme.
The Blue Flag programme promotes sustainable development in freshwater and marine areas.
It challenges local authorities and beach operators to achieve high standards in water quality,
environmental management, environmental education and safety. Over the years, the Blue Flag
programme has become a highly respected and recognised eco-label working to bring together
the tourism and environmental sectors at local, regional and national levels.
The explanatory notes given in this document make up the common and shared understanding
of the Blue Flag marina criteria and the requirements for the implementation thereof. The
explanatory notes provide details on the measurement and management of compliance with the
Blue Flag criteria for marinas.
The criteria are categorised as either imperative or guideline. Most criteria are imperative,
which means that the marina must comply with them in order to be awarded Blue Flag
accreditation. If they are guideline criteria, it is preferable that they are complied with, but not
mandatory. For some criteria, there are slight variations in different regions of the world.
It must be emphasized that the Blue Flag marina criteria in this document are the minimum
requirement. A national programme can choose to have stricter criteria to what is outlined here.
These marina criteria and explanatory notes are to be used by all Blue Flag applicant marinas to
understand the requirements that must be met before the marina can receive Blue Flag
accreditation. For guidance purposes, this document should also prove valuable for the
management of marinas already accredited with Blue Flag status.
The marina criteria and explanatory notes also serve as a guide for the National, Regional and
International Blue Flag Juries when making decisions about a Blue Flag marina candidate.
If a marina that has Blue Flag accreditation does not comply with the Blue Flag criteria, the flag
may be permanently or temporarily withdrawn from the marina. There are several degrees of
non-compliance:
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A minor non-compliance is where there is a problem with only one criterion of minor
consequence to the health and safety of the marina user or to the environment. When
minor compliance occurs and can be immediately rectified, the flag is not withdrawn and
the non-compliance is only registered in the control visit report. If however, a minor
compliance cannot be fixed immediately, the marina is given 10 days in which to comply
fully with all criteria. The flag is withdrawn until all problems are rectified and it is noted
on the Blue Flag homepage.
Multiple non-compliances relates to non-compliance of two to three criteria but of
minor consequence to the health and safety of the marina user or to the environment.
When multiple non-compliances occur, the marina is given 10 days in which to comply
fully with all criteria, the flag is withdrawn until all the problems are rectified and the
homepage is updated accordingly.
Major non-compliance is where the marina does not comply with one or several criteria,
the result of which can have consequence to the health and safety of the marina user or
to the environment, as well as the general perception of the marina and therefore the
Programme. When met with major non-compliance, the flag is withdrawn immediately
and for the rest of the season. The site is registered as 'withdrawn' on the Blue Flag
homepage, and the marina information board should clearly indicate that Blue Flag
status has been withdrawn.
In all cases of non-compliance, the National Operator must immediately inform the local
authority/marina operator about the observed areas of non-compliance. Information about the
reason for a withdrawal of the flag must be posted clearly at the marina. The local
authority/marina operator must inform the National Operator of re-compliance with the criteria
and present the appropriate documentation needed. The flag can then be raised at the marina
again. The National Operator should also consider a follow-up control visit to check that the
marina does comply. In the event that the local authority/marina operator does not ensure and
document re-compliance with the criteria within 10 days, the National Operator must ensure that
the Blue Flag is withdrawn for the rest of the season at the marina.
In the event that conditions on the marina change and the flag has to be temporarily withdrawn,
e.g. when climatic events cause damage to the marina or an emergency arises, the marina
management must inform the National Operator that the flag has been temporarily withdrawn.
and the international website must be changed accordingly.
Apart from updating the Blue Flag homepage of the status of the marina, the National Operator
must inform the International Coordination about the non-compliance. If the non-compliance is
noted at by an international controller, the National Operator has to give feedback to the
International Coordination within 30 days.
The applicant for Blue Flag accreditation is the authority charged with responsibility for the
marina. This may be a local municipality, private hotel, national park, or private marina operator.
A marina may be eligible for Blue Flag accreditation if it is a designated bathing area and it has
the necessary facilities and services to comply with the Blue Flag criteria.
FEE, and the National Operator in a country, reserves the right to refuse or withdraw Blue Flag
accreditation from any marina where the local authority/marina operator is responsible for
violations of national environmental regulations or otherwise acts in discord with the objectives
and spirit of the Blue Flag programme. Blue Flag marinas are subject to announced and/or
unannounced control visits by FEE International.
DEFINITION OF A BLUE FLAG MARINA
A Blue Flag marina must be a marina with pontoons or piers for pleasure boats. It can be part of
a larger harbour with other activities, if the Blue Flag marina is clearly separated from other
harbour activities. The marina can be located in marine or inland waters. The marina must have
the necessary facilities to comply with the Blue Flag criteria. The marina must appoint a person
to be responsible for communications on all matters relating to the Blue Flag programme. The
marina must be accessible for unannounced inspection by FEE.
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ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION AND INFORMATION
1. Information relating to local eco-systems and environmental phenomena must
be available to marina users
The aim of this criterion is to ensure that the marina users and boaters are well informed and
educated about the eco-systems and sensitivity of the surrounding environment, and that they
are motivated to learn about and experience this environment in a responsible way.
The information about the coastal zone eco-system and nearby sensitive, natural areas and
marine areas (including Marine Protected Areas) must be publicly displayed on the information
board at the marina. Nearby sensitive areas are defined as areas within walking distance from
the marina (a few kilometres) and nearby sensitive, natural marine areas are defined as coastal
or inland areas easily reached by boat (within the distance frequently sailed by the users of the
marina). The information should include both the information about the sensitive area and, in
cases where it is possible to visit the sensitive area, a code of conduct for activities within the
area should be included. Details must also be provided about sensitive marine areas to avoid
when sailing or mooring.
It is particularly important for applicants with marinas located in natural settings to pay close
attention to this criterion. If there are no particularly sensitive areas nearby, information about
the general surrounding eco-systems should be posted.
Other general environmental information about the surrounding environment could also be
appropriate and could demonstrate the environmental commitment of the marina.
Some sites at/near the Blue Flag marina may be very sensitive and require special
management. In these cases, the marina operator is strongly encouraged to consult an
appropriate conservation organisation for advice on how to manage these sites. Where areas
require special management, at the time of application, the applicant must provide confirmation
that this consultation has taken place and that a management plan will be implemented.
In exceptional cases, the sensitivity of certain natural areas may precludes them from being
included in the information posted at the marina, due to the fact that such information could
increase the number of visitors to the area and possibly endanger wildlife or impact on habitats.
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
All regions
GUIDELINE CRITERION
2. A code of conduct that reflects appropriate laws governing the use of the marina and
surrounding areas must be displayed at the marina (i).
A code of environmental conduct should cover the following issues:
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Use of the reception facilities for hazardous waste / oil waste, etc.
Use of the garbage containers / litter bins / waste recycling facilities
Respect for sensitive protected natural areas
Avoidance of sensitive protected areas where sailing is prohibited
Use of the boat-repairing and washing areas according to the prescriptions
Prohibition of emptying litterbins, toilet tank waste, etc. into the marina, sea or along the
coast
Use of the toilet tank waste facilities
The code of conduct must be posted on the information board. In addition, the code of conduct
can be distributed to boatowners (leaflet form) when possible, and could also be available on
the marina website.
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
All regions
GUIDELINE CRITERION
3. Information about the Blue Flag marina programme and/or the Blue Flag marina
criteria and other FEE eco-label must be displayed in the marina
Information about the Blue Flag programme must be displayed on the information board. The
correct Blue Flag logo must be used, in accordance with the FEE branding guidelines. The
essence of each of the four categories of Blue Flag criteria must be explained. It is strongly
recommended that the entire list of criteria is available at the marina for interested visitors.
Furthermore, contact details of the international Blue Flag Coordination, the national Blue Flag
operator and the local person responsible for the marina must be displayed. Visitors should be
encouraged to contact the relevant authority if they come across any non-compliance with the
Blue Flag marina criteria.
Blue Flag beaches and marinas must promote the Green Key programme as another eco-label
FEE programme with a message such as: “Along with the Blue Flag, the Foundation for
Environmental Education also develops another eco-label for accommodations: Green Key.
Find more information at: www.green-key.org.”
The information posted on the information board should also include the duration of the Blue
Flag season and on what basis a marina can receive Blue Flag accreditation.
The following information about the Blue Flag programme could be useful when preparing the
information to be posted at the information board:
The Blue Flag programme:
This marina has been awarded a Blue Flag. The Blue Flag is an environmental award given to
marinas making a special effort to implement sound management with respect to the local
environment and nature, and providing users with information on environmental issues. To
attain the Blue Flag, the marina has to comply with a number of criteria concerning
environmental information and education, environmental management, safety and service
facilities, and water quality.
The Blue Flag is awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), a nongovernmental environmental organisation and is represented by national organisations in each
of the participating countries in Europe, the Caribbean, New Zealand and South Africa. Along
with the Blue Flag, FEE also develops another eco-label for accommodations: Green Key. Find
more information at: www.green-key.org
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The Blue Flag is an environmental award for beaches and marinas
The Blue Flag is concerned with four main areas:
1) Environmental education and information
2) Environmental management
3) Safety and service facilities
4) Water quality
The Blue Flag is only awarded for one season at a time and the award is only valid as long
as the criteria are fulfilled. When this is not the case, the persons responsible at local level
must remove the Blue Flag
The national FEE organisation conducts control visits to the Blue Flag sites during the
season.
You can help the programme by also taking action to protect the environment:
• Follow instructions of the code of conduct at the marina
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Use environmentally-friendly products for paints, detergents, chemicals etc.
Report any pollution or other violations of environmental regulations to the authorities
Save water, electricity and fuel
Encourage other sailors to take care of the environment
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
All regions
GUIDELINE CRITERION
4. The marina is responsible for offering at least three environmental education activities
to the users and staff of the marina
Environmental education activities promote the aims of the Blue Flag programme by:
- Increasing the awareness of, and care for, the aquatic environment by recreational
users and inhabitants of the marina and adjacent areas.
- Providing training in environmental matters and best practice methods to marina
personnel, suppliers to the marina and other tourist services operating in the area of the
marina
- Encouraging the participation of local stakeholders in local ecosystem management
- Promoting sustainable recreation and tourism in the area
- Promoting sharing of ideas and efforts between the Blue Flag programme and other
FEE programmes (YRE, LEAF, Eco-Schools and Green Key).
The planned activities for the coming season must be included in the application form, as well
as information about the environmental education activities carried out during the previous Blue
Flag season (if applicable).
There must be at least three different activities offered by the marina and carried out within the
Blue Flag season. The activities should focus on the environment, environmental issues, Blue
Flag issues or sustainability issues.
The education activities should be effective and relevant. It is recommended that the marina
management should re-evaluate the activities implemented in previous seasons and work
towards constantly improving them.
If specific environmental areas (including Marine Protected Areas) exist near a Blue Flag marina
(e.g. mangroves, sea grass beds), it is strongly recommended that 1 or 2 environmental
activities deal with these sensitive, natural areas.
Types of Activities
There must be a mix of different types of educational activities carried out by the marina. The
different types of activities can be divided into five categories:
Activities for Passive Participation: This could include exhibitions, demonstrations, films,
presentations, slide shows, conferences, debates, presentations by international experts, etc.
Activities for Active Participation: This includes guided tours, educational games, theatre/plays,
cleaning days, photography or drawing competitions, nature reconstruction projects, recycling
projects, green technology projects, community coastal monitoring programmes, etc.
Training Activities: This could be training for boaters or marina staff, people in charge of children
groups, contractors, specific national training programmes, etc.
Publishing and Media: The production of leaflets, stickers, interpretive signs, postcards, school
and municipal newsletters, books, T-shirts, bags, posters, radio broadcasts, etc.
Blue Flag Environmental Information Centre: This is a place where specific information about
Blue Flag and environmental education issues can be provided. Such a centre or place should
offer both activities and exhibitions and provide environmental and nature information in order to
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qualify as an environmental interpretation or education centre. Information about its location and
activities is provided at the marina or in nearby tourist information offices.
Target groups
The activities should be addressed to a wide range of different target groups. These target
groups could be visitors, boaters, workers, locals, other tourism employees, fishermen, local
industries, etc.
The types, amounts and target groups of activities should match the situation. For example, in a
major tourist destination, more than one activity per season should be available to the general
public.
Connection with existing programmes
It is recommended that the marina work with other groups, NGO’s, with local Blue Flag beaches
or with participants of other FEE programmes, with experts and universities to help set up and
implement the activities.
Information about activities
Information about the publicly accessible activities must be made available at the marina and
preferably also in tourism newspapers or magazines or posted in tourism offices. The published
information should include: what kind of activities, when and where are they going to take place,
who they are for, etc.
Not Acceptable
Activities that are not acceptable for meeting this criterion are activities that:
− are done to meet other Blue Flag criteria such as the general cleaning of the marina,
waste management, recycling, etc.
− focus only on tourism without a specific focus on sustainable tourism
− are otherwise done by the marina as part of the standard management of health, safety,
or tourism.
Examples
Examples of good educational activities can be found downloaded from the Blue Flag
international website (www.blueflag.org).
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
All regions
GUIDELINE CRITERION
5. The individual Blue Flag for boat owners is offered through the marina
The management at the marina must offer the Individual Blue Flag for Boat Owners at the
marina office. The individual Blue Flag is a small flag offered (given or purchased) to boat
owners who commit themselves to an environmental code of conduct. Both national and foreign
boat owners are eligible for the Individual Blue Flag.
The exact content of the environmental code of conduct varies from country to country, but they
should, at least, contain the following:
- I will not throw garbage into the sea or along the coast
- I will not release waste water into the sea, in coastal waters or sensitive areas
- I am using a holding tank for the collection of toilet waste on board
- I will not release poisonous or toxic waste (oil, paint, used batteries, cleaning agents,
etc.) into the sea. I will safely dispose of these wastes in containers provided in the
marina/harbour.
- I will promote and use recycling facilities (glass, paper, etc.)
- I will use the most environmentally-friendly products (paints, anti-foulings, paint
remover, detergents, chemicals etc.) available
- I will instantly report pollution or other violations of environmental regulations to the
authorities
- I will not use illegal fishing practices and I will respect periods when fishing is prohibited
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I will protect animals and plants in the sea, including not disturbing breeding birds, seals
or other marine mammals
I will respect sensitive and natural protected areas
I will avoid anchoring in sensitive areas
I will avoid disturbing fishery or fishing gear
I will be respectful and considerate to other people and the environment
I will not buy or use objects made from protected/endangered species or from
archaeological underwater findings
I will encourage other sailors to take care of the environment
The code of conduct should require the name, signature and address of the boat owner and
must also contain the name and address of the national office or the International Coordination.
If the boat owner hands in the Code of Conduct to the marina management, they should send it
to the national operator who will then send the flag to the boat owner. Alternatively, the boat
owner can send it directly to either the national or International Coordination. All boat owners
flying the Blue Flag will have their name and addresses registered at the national operator.
The marina must offer the environmental code of conduct at the marina office, clubhouse or
shop. If there is no national version of the environmental code of conduct available, the
international version should be presented. In addition, information about the Individual Blue Flag
for Boat Owners must be displayed on the information board.
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
All regions
GUIDELINE CRITERION
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT
6. A marina management committee should be established to be in charge of instituting
environmental management systems and conducting regular environmental audits of the
marina facility
The marina management committee should consist of all the relevant stakeholders at the local
level. Relevant stakeholders could include representatives from: the local authority, local
tourism, sailing organizations, Marine Protected Area representant, educational representative,
local environmental NGO, etc.
The marina management committee should cooperate with the marina manager to institute the
environmental management system and to conduct regular environmental audits of the marina.
The committee is furthermore jointly charged with ensuring compliance with other environmental
management criteria.
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
GUIDELINE CRITERION
All regions
7. The marina must have an environmental policy and an environmental plan. The plan
should include references to water management, waste and energy consumption, health
and safety issues, and the use of environmentally-friendly products wherever possible
This criterion encourages the marina to investigate the environmental loads entering the marina,
to plan and perform the improvements of the environmental conditions at the marina, and finally,
to document these improvements. The criterion therefore, not only aims to encourage marinas
to get an overview of the environmental situation – but also to focus on the action that needs to
be taken. Planning and improving the environmental conditions at the marina can - at the same
time - have a positive effect on the economy of the marina.
The marinas participating in the Blue Flag programme are very different in size and capacity.
See Appendix A for two suggestions on how to comply with this criterion
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
All regions
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GUIDELINE CRITERION
8. Sensitive area management.
Some sites at/near the Blue Flag marina may be very sensitive and require special
management. In these cases, the marina operator is strongly encouraged to consult an
appropriate conservation organisation or expert for advice on how to manage these sites.
Where areas require special management, at the time of application, the applicant must provide
confirmation that this consultation has taken place and that a management plan will be
implemented.
In or near a Marine Protected Area, it is necessary to consult with the MPA management in
order to ensure compatible ecosystem conservation and biodiversity goals.
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
All regions
GUIDELINE CRITERION
9. Adequate and properly identified, segregated containers must be in place for the
storage of hazardous wastes. The wastes have to be handled by a licensed contractor
and disposed of at a licensed facility for hazardous wastes
The facilities for hazardous waste must provide segregated, properly identified containers for
the collection of all relevant hazardous waste (e.g. paints, solvents, boat scraping, antifouling
agents, batteries, waste oil, flares, etc.) in segregated containers that are properly identified. It is
obligatory to have segregated facilities for at least three (3) different types of hazardous waste.
The facilities for receiving hazardous waste must be functional. In locating and choosing
storage facilities, consideration should be given to aesthetics as well.
The capacity of the containers, the number of users of the marina and how frequently the
containers are emptied, determine the number of containers placed in the marina.
The facilities for receiving hazardous waste must be clean and environmentally-safe, i.e. the
containers must be suitable to contain the hazardous waste and the floor on which the
containers stand must be concrete, a metal tray or of another solid material. The waste must be
prevented from leaking, ignition, exploding, etc. They should be separated from other facilities
and must not pose a danger to children. Wherever possible, the facilities should not be located
close to the water. In the event of an accidental spillage, the area around the containers must
be cleaned up immediately and rehabilitated as a matter of priority. The oil reception facilities
should preferably include mobile oil reception facilities.
Licensed disposal facilities means facilities approved by authorities on the basis of
environmental requirements. To ensure the correct collection, sorting, storage and disposal of
the waste, the marina must comply with national/international waste management
plans/standards (in Europe according to the EU Directive 2000/59/EC of 27 November 2000).
The duty of the marina receiving Blue Flag accreditation is to ensure that the waste is properly
disposed of. Licensed carriers must transport the hazardous waste to the licensed facility.
In the case of small and/or remote marinas (less than 150 berths) who find it impossible to deal
with hazardous waste due to an inability to responsibly dispose of the waste, it is permissible to
negotiate with another marina in the vicinity of their marina that has the facilities to recover and
dispose of hazardous waste. If this neighbouring marina can deal with the hazardous waste of
the small and remote marina, then it can accept the hazardous waste from the boating clients of
the small and remote marina. However, this must be stipulated on the marina information board
as well as in the marina’s information package to all visiting boaters.
A written agreement needs to be signed between the two marinas, however it remains the
responsibility of the Blue Flag marina to ensure that the waste is properly managed.
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
All regions
Page 8
GUIDELINE CRITERION
10. Adequate and well-managed litterbins and/or garbage containers must be place. The
wastes are handled by a licensed contractor and disposed of at a licensed facility
All the land areas of the marina itself should appear clean with regularly emptied litter bins /
garbage containers. Also restaurants, shops, green areas, etc. in the marina must be kept
clean.
Litterbins and/or garbage containers should be functional and attactive. Consideration should be
given to aesthetics as well as functionality. If possible, it is also recommended that litterbins
should be made of environmentally-friendly products.
An adequate number of litterbins/garbage containers should be present, depending on the
number of users of the marina, the capacity of the litterbins/garbage containers and how
frequently they are emptied.
Licensed disposal facilities means facilities approved by authorities on the basis of
environmental requirements. The duty of the marina receiving Blue Flag accreditation is to make
sure that its waste is properly disposed of. Licensed carriers must transport the waste to the
licensed facility.
To ensure the correct collection, sorting, storage and disposal of the hazardous waste, the
marina must comply with national/international waste management plans/standards (in Europe
according to the EU Directive 2000/59/EC of 27 November 2000).
The marina must ensure a cleaning of the area as often as needed (could be every day). In the
case of severe pollution coming from outside, such pollution must immediately be removed
according to the procedures in the emergency plan (criterion 18). In very severe cases, it can be
necessary to withdraw the Blue Flag temporarily explaining the reasons for the withdrawal on
the information board.
At the same time, it is important in the code of environmental conduct (criterion no. 2) to
educate the marina users not to throw garbage, empty toilet tanks etc. into the marina or the
sea.
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
All regions
GUIDELINE CRITERION
11. The marina must have facilities for receiving recyclable waste materials, such as
bottles, cans, paper, plastic, organic material, etc.
In the marina, emphasis should be placed on waste minimisation. Waste should be separated to
the largest possible extent into different categories and recycled.
Separation could include glass, cans, paper, plastic, organic material, etc. The marina must
have facilities for receiving at least three different kinds of recyclable waste materials. To
facilitate use, the containers must be well labelled, and if appropriate, in different languages.
Information about how to separate the recyclable waste should be provided at the location of
the recycling facility or at the information board.
The marina receiving Blue Flag accreditation has the duty to ensure that its recyclable waste is
properly recycled. Licensed carriers must transport the waste to the recycling facility.
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
All regions
GUIDELINE CRITERION
12. Bilge water pumping facilities should be available at the marina
The bilge water pumping facilities should be able to separate the oily bilge water or water
extraction from oily residues.
Page 9
The bilge water pumping facilities can be provided within the marina or in very close proximity to
the marina. The facilities must be easily accessible for all potential users.
In the case of a small and/or remote marina (less than 150 berths), the possibility of sharing this
facility with a neighbouring marina is permitted. In this case, the information must be very clear
on the information board as well as to all clients of the marina. A written agreement needs to be
signed between the two marinas, however it remains the responsibility of the Blue Flag marina
to ensure that the bilge pumping facilities are properly managed.
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
GUIDELINE CRITERION
All regions
13. Toilet tank waste reception facilities must be present in the marina
The toilet tank waste reception facilities may consist of a permanent toilet pumping station, a
mobile toilet pumping facility or a sludge pumping van.
The toilet pumping facilities can be located within the marina or in very close proximity to the
marina. The facilities must be easily accessible to boat owners.
The permanent toilet pumping facilities must be centrally located in the marina, easily
accessible for all boats (including those boats requiring more space and depth).
The toilet tank waste reception facilities must comply with the national legislation.
In the case of a small and/or remote marina (less than 150 berths), the possibility of sharing this
facility with a neighbouring marina is permitted. Additionally, a small and/or remote marina can
also offer the services of a contractor to take care of this. In both cases, the information must be
very clear on the information board as well as to all clients of the marina. A written agreement
needs to be signed between the two marinas, or the Blue Flag marina and the contractor,
however it remains the responsibility of the Blue Flag marina to ensure that the toilet tank
reception facilities are properly managed.
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
All regions
GUIDELINE CRITERION
14. All buildings and equipment must be properly maintained and be in compliance with
national legislation. The marina must be well integrated into the surrounding natural and
built environment
The marina (including all the buildings and equipment) must be well maintained and must
comply with national and international legislation. The marina must have all the necessary
permits to act as a marina.
If a new marina with more than 500 berths is to be constructed or an existing marina is to be
extended by more than 250 berths, an Environmental Impact Assessment must be conducted.
Other buildings/facilities at the marina (including shops, restaurants, cranes, playgrounds etc.)
must be clean, safe, properly maintained and in compliance with the legislation. No
unauthorised pollution from buildings/facilities must enter the marina land, water or
surroundings.
It is strongly recommended that the marina uses environmentally-friendly equipment and
products in the buildings whenever possible. Green areas at the marina should also be properly
maintained in an environmentally-friendly way (without the use of pesticides, etc.).
Page 10
Consideration should be given to the general appearance of the marina. It must be well
integrated within the surrounding natural and built environment, should give consideration to
design standards and meet environmental and aesthetic requirements. It is not the intention that
all Blue Flag marinas become identical; marinas should be encouraged to maintain their
individual characteristics.
The Blue Flag must not fly during substantial building extensions and/or rebuilding at the
marina.
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
All regions
GUIDELINE CRITERION
15. Adequate, clean and well sign-posted sanitary facilities, including washing facilities
must be in place and provide drinking water. Sewage disposal is controlled and directed
to a licensed sewage treatment
The sanitary facilities must be in good condition, clean and well kept. The sanitary facility
buildings must also be well maintained and in general accordance with national building
legislation (see also criterion no. 12).
The sanitary facilities should include toilets, washbasins and showers. There should also be
drinking water available. Other facilities could include washing machines.
The number of sanitary facilities available in the marina must be adequate for the number of
marina visitors in the peak season. The marina management should discourage boat owners
from using the boat toilet facilities during their stay in the marina.
The sanitary facilities must be easy accessible and located not too far away from any point in
the marina (in general less than 200 metres from any boat at any berth). The location of the
sanitary facilities must be easy to locate (using signs or on the map of the marina).
The sanitary facilities must be linked to a licensed sewage treatment system, and the system
must be in compliance with the EU Urban Waste Water Directive. If the marina is very small
and/or very remote, the National Jury can, in special cases, approve another safe way of
disposing of the generated wastewater from the marina.
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
All regions
GUIDELINE CRITERION
16. If the marina has boat repairing and washing areas, no pollution must enter the
sewage system, marina land and water or the natural surroundings
A marina with boat repairing and washing areas must comply with all standards and regulations
in national and international legislation.
The boat repairing and washing must take place in a specifically designated area at the marina.
There must in be collection filters (or equivalent systems) from boat repairing and washing
areas to prevent hazardous substances from entering the sewage system and the marina
land/water. The collection filters must be regularly emptied and the waste in the filters should be
treated as hazardous waste.
Larger repairing activities (e.g. grinding, polishing or sandblasting which cause dust pollution)
should take place under cover or indoors under controlled conditions. Collected waste must be
handled as hazardous waste.
Serious noise pollution from boat repairing and washing must be avoided.
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
All regions
Page 11
GUIDELINE CRITERION
17. Sustainable transportation should be promoted
The marina should encourage the use of sustainable transportation to and from the marina.
If there are more than two kilometres to the nearest urban settlement, there should preferably
be public transportation between the marina and urban settlement.
Sustainable transportation can also be promoted through the availability of bicycles for rent and
the presence of pedestrian pathways.
Since this criterion is in accordance with Local Agenda 21 activities, the marina is encouraged
to collaborate, or work with, local authorities and/or local Agenda 21 groups regarding
compliance with this criterion.
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
GUIDELINE CRITERION
All regions
18. Parking/driving is not permitted in the marina, unless in specific designated areas
In general, parking and driving cars inside the marina should be avoided. The use of cars
should, wherever possible, be replaced with sustainable transportation (public transportation,
bicycles, etc.) – see criterion no. 16.
If parking and driving within the marina cannot be avoided, driving and parking must only take
place in areas designated for this purpose. It is very important in the planning of these areas, to
consider the safety and free passage of people walking in the marina.
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
All regions
GUIDELINE CRITERION
SAFETY AND SERVICES
19. Adequate and well signposted lifesaving, first-aid equipment and fire-fighting
equipment must be present. Equipment must be approved by national authorities
When addressing good safety practices in marinas, it is valuable to distinguish between the
different role-players and the different types of action to be taken:
- The Users (sailors) versus the Marina Management and Staff
- Prevention measures versus Rescue/Emergency measures
Accident prevention is paramount for safety. To help prevent accidents, the marina
management and staff should ensure that the marina facilities are properly maintained, that
national legislation is followed, and that staff and users are well informed and/or trained about
safety issues. It is also recommended that an assessment of the marina be undertaken to study
safety issues, e.g. the placement of boats in relation to the possible spread of fires, etc.
If an accident does occur, the marina should have the necessary technical means or equipment
to deal with it.
Lifesaving equipment
The following general guidelines should be followed when considering water safety in a marina:
- A person who falls in the water should be able to get out of the water
- A person must be able to help or rescue a distressed person in the water without risking
his or her own life.
The required lifesaving equipment in the marina must (at least) include the presence of
lifebuoys and ladders. Other types of lifesaving equipment could include boat-hooks, rescue
Page 12
boats, rescue stations, etc. at/near the marina. The lifesaving equipment must be approved by
the national lifesaving body or comply with national or international standards. The equipment
must be available in adequate numbers, easy to identify (well signposted) and easily accessible
from all over the marina (not more than 200 meters from any point). The placement of
equipment must be in compliance with national legislation. It must be available 24 hours a day
throughout the Blue Flag season and the location of lifesaving equipment must be indicated on
the marina map.
A guideline recommendation is for a ladder and public lifesaving equipment to be placed (at
least) every 25-50 meters from any water-front point in the marina. Equipment should be
available on each pier. The equipment should furthermore be painted for visibility (red, orange
and with reflectors).
Fire-fighting equipment
The fire-fighting equipment in the marina must (at least) include the presence of fire
extinguishers, but could also include water hoses, fire carpets, etc. The fire-fighting equipment
must be approved by the national fire fighting association/organisation/authority or comply with
national or international standards.
The equipment must be available in adequate numbers, easy to identify (well signposted) and
easily accessible from all over the marina (not more than 200 meters from any point). The
placement of equipment must also be in compliance with national legislation. It must be
available 24 hours a day throughout the Blue Flag season. The location of fire-fighting
equipment must be indicated on the marina map.
Fire extinguishers must also be present at fuelling stations, near hazardous waste storage
facilities and at locations where high temperature work is being done.
A guideline recommendation is to have handheld fire extinguishers placed every 25-50 meters
and with at least one per pier. On piers longer than 100 meters, there should be a fixed water
supply (fire hydrant) at the beginning of the pier. When deciding on the size and type of
extinguishers and their placement, consideration should be given to the size of the boats and
the distance of the marina from an emergency fire department or fire brigade.
First Aid
First-aid equipment must be present at the marina and can be located in the marina office or at
other facilities (shops, restaurants, etc.). The first-aid equipment does not necessarily need to
be available 24 hours a day, but must be available at reasonable times (e.g. the opening hours
of the marina office). The content of a first-aid equipment box must comply with national
legislation or meet the standards set by a national or international lifesaving association. In
exceptional cases, the first-aid equipment can be located in a place very near to the marina
(less than 200 metres away). The contents of the first-aid box must be regularly checked and
items must be replaced if necessary. The availability and location of the first-aid equipment
must be very clearly signposted on the information board and on the marina map.
Other
It is recommended that the entrance/exit to the marina be clearly marked with signs for sailors.
It is recommended that the marina be well lit at night.
For dry docks and storage areas, it is recommended that the boats be placed so that
emergency vehicles can move between the rows, and fire fighting equipment should be placed
throughout the area. Local fire experts should be contacted for advice.
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
All regions
Page 13
GUIDELINE CRITERION
20. Emergency plans in case of pollution, fire or other accidents must be produced
If an accident or emergency does occur, the marina should have the necessary organisational
means or emergency plans in place to deal with it.
The marina must have an emergency plan available that states what to do in case of pollution,
fire or other possible accidents affecting the safety of the marina (e.g. safety at fuelling stations,
near cranes, etc.). The staff at the marina must be informed about the emergency plan.
The emergency plan for the marina can be specific for the marina, but can also be part of a
larger harbour, municipal or regional emergency plan. Relevant authorities (local authorities,
fire-fighting brigade, Red Cross, etc) must approve the emergency plan.
The emergency plan should at least include the following:
- Identification of the people to contact in case of an accident
- Involvement of administration services and people necessary to intervene
- Procedures for the protection or evacuation of people at or near the marina
- Procedure of public warning and information.
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
GUIDELINE CRITERION
All regions
21. Safety precautions and information must be posted at the marina
Accident prevention is paramount for safety. In most cases, accidents that occur could have
been prevented by the people involved. Thus, safety information and education for the marina
users is very important.
General information about safety precautions must be posted at an easily accessible site at the
marina, and on the information board. The safety precautions should include (at least) the
following:
- Information about the correct storage of hazardous and flammable waste
- Directions for filling gasoline/petrol tanks at the fuelling station
- Signs for safety hazards (e.g. unprotected piers)
- Prohibition of open fire or fireworks at the marina (unless there is a designated area or
permission from the marina)
- Directions for the safe use of electrical outlets at the marina
- No swimming in the marina
- Information about the location of eventual public telephone, lifesaving, fire-fighting and
first-aid equipment
- Information about how to use the above-mentioned equipment
- Details on how to warn other people about an unsafe situation
- Information about who to contact for further information about safety at the marina
- Information about relevant emergency telephone numbers (police, fire department,
ambulance, marina manager)
Other information could include:
- Guidance that children should wear lifejackets in the marina
- Information about first-aid and lifesaving courses
- Guidance about the consumption of alcohol at the marina
- Information about how to prevent fire on individual boats
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
All regions
GUIDELINE CRITERION
22. Electricity and water is available at the berths, installations must be approved
according to national legislation
Electricity and water must be available for the boats. The facilities must be available no more
than 25 metres from the berths (except for boats not using electricity). There must be clear
information about the conditions for using electricity and water and preferably also accompanied
by information about energy and water saving.
Page 14
All installations must be safe and approved by national and/or international legislation.
Public light must be available at marinas especially for safety reasons.
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
All regions
GUIDELINE CRITERION
23. Facilities for disabled people should be in place
The facilities for disabled people in a marina should (at least) include:
- Access for disabled people to and around in the marina (including the piers)
- Special car parking facilities for disabled people
- Access to sanitary facilities for disabled people
Other facilities for disabled people in a marina could be:
- Boating facilities for disabled people
- Access to marina offices, shops and restaurants in the marina
- Access to marina activities
All access and facilities for disabled people must comply with all national and international
regulations/standards. Toilets should be designed for wheelchair and other disabled users.
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
GUIDELINE CRITERION
All regions
24. A Map indicating the location of the different facilities must be posted at the marina
A map of the marina area indicating all the required and other facilities must be posted on the
information board.
The following facilities must be indicated on the map:
- Reception facilities for hazardous waste and oil waste
- Garbage containers
- Facilities for recyclable waste
- Toilet tank pumping/reception facilities (if present)
- Bilge water pumping/reception facilities (if present)
- Lifesaving equipment
- Fire-fighting equipment
- First-aid equipment
- Public telephone (if applicable)
- Sanitary facilities (toilets, showers, washing facilities, drinking facilities, etc.)
- Fuelling station (if present)
- Boat repairing and washing areas (if present)
- Marina office / club house
- Facilities for disabled people (if present)
- Designated parking areas (if present)
- Boat places reserved for guest boats (if present)
- Nearby public transportation (if very close to the marina)
- You are Here indicators
- Direction signs, e.g. North
Other facilities (like shops, restaurants, etc.) can also be indicated on the map.
The different facilities should preferably be indicated on the map as easily understood
pictograms.
The cartographic co-ordinates of the marina should be located in a clearly visible place.
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
All regions
Page 15
GUIDELINE CRITERION
WATER QUALITY
25. The water in the marina must be visually clean without any evidence of pollution, e.g.
oil, litter, sewage or other evidence of pollution
In order for the marina to comply with high environmental standards, it is very important that the
marina and marina water are visually clean. The marina water should not contain oil spots, litter
(bottles, cans, plastic, etc.), sewage or other noticeable signs of pollution. What about unnatural odours or smells coming from the water?
Natural occurrences like decaying of algae, spawning of mussels, etc. might give the
appearance of pollution in the water without this actually being the case. In such cases,
information about the natural occurrences should be provided at the information board.
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
All regions
Page 16
GUIDELINE CRITERION
APPENDIX A:
Tools for establishing environmental plans
[Criterion 7]
The marinas participating in the Blue Flag programme are very different in size and capacity.
The compliance with criterion 7 can therefore take place in two ways: either a) through the
planning and performance/implementation as requested in an “environmental logbook” system,
or b) through implementing a proper environmental management system.
a) “Environmental logbook” system
In the “environmental logbook” system, the environmental goals for a Blue Flag marina are
listed. The marina management can choose the most relevant and important goals for the
marina, but does not need to restrict itself to these. It is recommended that these goals are
discussed with the national operator. What is essential is continual improvement. The marina is
therefore required to set new and higher goals each year, though the marina can choose to
work with goals relating to previously set goals.
In the application form for the coming season the marina must provide information about the
goals that the marina intends to fulfil. In the same application form, the marina should also
report on goals achieved in the previous season by sending a status copy of the environmental
logbook. The marina can change a goal during the season, but there should be a good reason
for this and it needs to be noted in the environmental logbook. The marina is strongly advised to
contact the national operator before changing a goal. In exceptional cases, if the marina has not
fulfilled a goal and they can give a reasonable explanation for it, the National Jury might choose
to give a dispensation. There is no stipulation that the marina has to fulfil the goal during the
Blue Flag season; often it is preferable to carry out improvements ahead of the season.
Here are some suggestions from FEE for relevant goals:
GOAL
DESCRIPTION
1
1a
1b
1c
Electricity
Replace energy consuming light bulbs
Management of lighting in marina
Change old equipment and
installations
Sunlight collector Collection of solar
energy.
Limit on electricity on the jetty to 4
ampere
General investigation of the electric
insulation at the marina
1d
1e
1f
2
2a
2b
2c
Water
Install water saving equipment, e.g.
showers,
Install water saving taps
Replace toilets, shower, taps, etc
FURTHER INFORMATION
Put in place energy-saving bulbs
Put in place automatic light switches.
Refrigerator, freezer, washing machine,
etc.
Heating the water
Visitors cannot then use el-heaters
Toilets with less flush water and/or
toilets with two types of flush (3 / 6 litres)
Waste pipe, water pipe, etc.
2d
2e
2f
2g
Inspection of the installation
Push buttons on taps and showers
Information about water saving
Install an environmental facility for
receiving toilet waste
3
3a
3b
Buy and use of environmentally-friendly products
Buy environmentally-friendly paint
Buy environmentally-friendly soap for
cleaning and washing
Page 17
4
4a
Waste
Production of “recycling bags”
4b
Litter management and disposal
4c
Establish compost bins
For boat owners taking short trips and
returning to the marina, the marina can
offer garbage bags to collect their waste
while at sea.
Separation of organic waste (for
compost) and inorganic/toxic waste.
Establish additional containers for
sorting household waste
The environmental logbook looks like this:
Environmental logbook of a Blue Flag Marina
Name of Marina:
Park Marina
Name of responsible person: Brian Jones
Year:
2004
Activity
Date
Goal
Goal
15-01-04 1a
Goal
15-01-04 2a
Action
15-05-04 1a
Action
30-05-04 2a
Action
25-06-04 1a
Goals
obtained
01-12-04 1a
2a
Description
Changing to energy
saving bulbs everywhere
in the marina.
Change to water saving
showers.
Persons
involved
Brian Jones
Peter Smith
Documentation
Brian Jones
Peter Smith
The bulbs in the office,
Brian Jones
toilet and in the club were
changed. The bulbs
outside will be changed
during the season.
The showers were
Brian Jones
changed and at the same
time we changed to
water saving taps (2b).
The bulbs outside were
Brian Jones
changed.
Copy of bills and
photos.
Copy of bills and
photos.
Copy of bills and
photos.
Obtained
Obtained
Further remarks
We expect to see savings on the water consumption in 2004.
b) Environmental management system
If a marina chooses to ensure the compliance through an environmental management system, it
can either be certified through the official systems (ISO 14001 or EMAS certification system), or
the marina can choose a parallel environmental management system as described here. It is
always possible, and advisable, to contact the national operator for more information about
environmental management systems.
Page 18
The environmental management system is a process that can be repeated. The circle looks as
follows:
Environmental
Policy
Mapping
Objectives
&
Goals
Evaluation
Management
plan
Internal
revision
Implementation
The Environmental Policy deals with how the marina can reduce the environmental loads from
its activities and should be a good example of how to inspire the users and other stakeholders
to make an active effort in protecting the environment. The marina must itself prioritise the work
and goals in correspondence with activities and wishes. There are, however, some
recommended areas (water, waste and energy consumption, health and safety issues, and the
use of environmentally sound products) which should be addressed.
Mapping is an important starting point for the further planning and evaluation of the
environmental work. The actual environmental load of the marina must be known. It can be
beneficial or useful to distinguish between the environmental loads from the marina and from
the boats (including guest boats) entering the marina.
In the evaluation of the environmental loads, it is important to be systematic and transparent to
be able to easily recognise the achievements from previous years. The number of
environmental factors at the marina is limited and most users can point out the most important
factors. The following steps can be used in the overview mapping process:
- Develop an overview of the marina and its immediate surroundings, and imagine an
invisible border around the marina
- Try to determine the environmental loads (in the form of energy, water, materials,
waste, etc) entering the designated area of the marina.
- Make a physical examination of the marina where all observed environmental
conditions are noted (Which environmental loads are present? Where can the
influences be observed? What is the reason for the influences?)
With a well-documented overview of the environmental conditions at the marina, the individual
conditions can be dealt with. It is important to identify the most important environmental loads of
the marina and determine a reasonable level of detail. It can be a good idea to use pre-defined
schemes in the evaluation of the marina to ensure that all relevant issues are included, to be
systematic and to see the changes/improvements over the years. It can be useful to have two
different schemes, one for the marina (basic running of the marina) and one for the users
(sailors).
When the management plan is produced for the first time, wherever possible, the most
important environmental improvements over the past years should be included (energy saving
Page 19
or water saving arrangements, etc.). The information about these improvements can give an
indication for new areas of improvements.
Objectives and goals: When information about the environmental loads has been ascertained, it
is time to consider the handling of the loads and to determine objectives for each of the
environmental conditions. In other words, decisions need to be taken about whether to change
the observed conditions. This should be followed by decisions regarding the objective, goals for
the acceptable discharge, waste handling, energy consumption, etc. When deciding on
objectives and goals it is important to take into account the overall environmental policy of the
marina.
The management plan: With the environmental policy and the objectives in place, it is time to
decide on the areas (with definite priorities) for the coming year. Efforts must be prioritised,
because it is often not possible to start on all areas at the same time. During this process, the
importance as well as the level of impacts involved and the size of the environmental loads must
be taken into consideration. In prioritising, the following issues must be considered:
- Effect (What is the effect to be expected from the effort?)
- Economy (What does it cost? Which savings can be expected? Are there external ways
of financing the implementation?)
- Environmental awareness (What effects do the efforts have?)
- Occupational health (Are there advantages for the occupational health?)
Having decided what to do, it is now time to decide how to do it (specification) within a certain
timeframe. It can be helpful to draw up a formal scheme of work.
The implementation of the management plan can require a change in behaviour of the users
and the management of the marina, a change in the code of conduct and the production of new
instructions. It is important to inform everybody about the management plan and what is
required of everyone.
The revision/audit is a means of checking whether the management plans have been fulfilled.
An internal revision/audit should therefore involve:
- Check that objectives are achieved
- Check whether the expected effects are obtained
- Investigate the reason and extent of any discrepancies
- Note any unforeseen effects
- Write down observations in the internal revision/audit
The evaluation should be published once a year as a tool in the environmental management
process, but also in order to promote the improvements externally. The evaluation could contain
the following:
- Description of the main environmental loads
- Prior environmental improvements (first year: previously taken initiatives, second year:
follow-up to the management plan)
- Environmental policy and objectives
- Environmental management plan
Continuing the process: After having been through the process the first year, the effect can be
evaluated and the process starts again (at a higher level than the previous year). The most
important environmental loads are again determined. The management plan must be reviewed
and the observed effects compared with the expected effects. The environmental policy should
also be evaluated in order to consider if changes are needed. Then the objectives and the
management plan for the next year are decided. The work can include issues as yet unresolved
from the previous year.
Page 20
ANNEXURE 3
BLUE FLAG BEACH CRITERIA
AND EXPLANATORY NOTES
2014
INTRODUCTION
The Blue Flag programme for beaches and marinas is run by the international, nongovernmental, non-profit organisation FEE (the Foundation for Environmental Education). The
Blue Flag programme was started in France in 1985. It has been operating in Europe since 1987
and in areas outside of Europe since 2001, when South Africa joined. Today, Blue Flag has
become a truly global programme with an ever-increasing number of countries participating in the
programme.
The Blue Flag programme promotes sustainable development in freshwater and marine areas. It
challenges local authorities and beach operators to achieve high standards in the four categories
of: water quality, environmental management, environmental education and safety. Over the
years, the Blue Flag has become a highly respected and recognised eco-label working to bring
together the tourism and environmental sectors at local, regional and national levels.
The explanatory notes given in this document make up the common and shared understanding of
the Blue Flag beach criteria and the requirements for the implementation thereof. The
explanatory notes provide details on the measurement and management of compliance with the
Blue Flag beach criteria.
The criteria are categorised as either imperative or guideline. Most beach criteria are imperative,
i.e. the beach must comply with them in order to be awarded Blue Flag accreditation. If they are
guideline criteria, it is preferable that they are complied with, but not mandatory.
It must be emphasised that the Blue Flag beach international criteria in this document are the
minimum criteria. A national operator can choose to have stricter criteria to what is outlined here.
These beach criteria and explanatory notes are to be used by all Blue Flag applicants in order to
understand the requirements that must be met before a beach can receive Blue Flag
accreditation. For guidance purposes, this document should also prove valuable for the
management of those beaches already accredited with Blue Flag status. The beach criteria and
explanatory notes also serve as a guide for the National, Regional and International Blue Flag
Juries when making decisions about a Blue Flag beach candidate.
During the Blue Flag season the flag must fly at the beach. The flag is both a symbol of the
programme being run at the beach but also an indication of compliance. The flag may either be
flown 24 hours a day during the Blue Flag season, or only during the hours when the beach
meets all the Blue Flag criteria. In the case of the former, there must be adequate signage
indicating the time when services (eg life-saving), and facilities (eg toilets) are in operation.
If a beach that has Blue Flag accreditation does not comply with the Blue Flag criteria, the flag
may be permanently or temporarily withdrawn from the beach. There are several degrees of noncompliance:
1. A minor non-compliance is where there is a problem with only one criterion of minor
consequence to the health and safety of the beach user or to the environment. When
minor compliance occurs and can be immediately rectified, the flag is not withdrawn and
1
the non-compliance is only registered in the control visit report. If however, a minor
compliance cannot be fixed immediately, the beach is given 10 days in which to comply
fully with all criteria. The flag is withdrawn until all problems are rectified and it is noted on
the Blue Flag homepage.
2. Multiple non-compliances relates to non-compliance of two to three criteria but of minor
consequence to the health and safety of the beach user or to the environment. When
multiple non-compliances occur, the beach is given 10 days in which to comply fully with
all criteria, the flag is withdrawn until all the problems are rectified and the homepage is
updated accordingly.
3. Major non-compliance is where the beach does not comply with one or several criteria,
the result of which can have consequence to the health and safety of the beach user or to
the environment, as well as the general perception of the beach and therefore the
Programme. When met with major non-compliance, the flag is withdrawn immediately and
for the rest of the season. The site is registered as 'withdrawn' on the Blue Flag
homepage, and the beach information board should clearly indicate that Blue Flag status
has been withdrawn.
In all cases of non-compliance, the National Operator must immediately inform the local
authority/beach operator about the observed areas of non-compliance. Information about the
reason for a withdrawal of the flag must be posted clearly at the beach. The local authority/beach
operator must inform the National Operator of re-compliance with the criteria and present the
appropriate documentation needed. The flag can then be raised at the beach again. The National
Operator should also consider a follow-up control visit to check that the beach does comply. In
the event that the local authority/beach operator does not ensure and document re-compliance
with the criteria within 10 days, the National Operator must ensure that the Blue Flag is withdrawn
for the rest of the season at the beach.
In the event that conditions on the beach change and the flag has to be temporarily withdrawn,
e.g. when climatic events cause damage to the beach or an emergency arises, the beach
management must inform the National Operator that the flag has been temporarily withdrawn and
the international website must be changed accordingly.
Apart from updating the Blue Flag homepage of the status of the beach, the National Operator
must inform the International Coordination about the non-compliance. If the non-compliance is
noted by an international controller, the National Operator has to give feedback to the
International Coordination within 30 days.
The applicant for Blue Flag accreditation is the authority charged with responsibility for the beach.
This may be a local municipality, private hotel, national park, or private beach operator. A beach
may be eligible for Blue Flag accreditation if it is a designated bathing area and it has the
necessary facilities and services to comply with the Blue Flag criteria.
A beach must be accessible in order to be eligible for Blue Flag accreditation. It is preferable that
beach users be granted free access to a Blue Flag beach, i.e. to use the beach and its facilities
without paying a fee. Blue Flag, however, recognises that at some beaches, e.g. private beaches,
members of the public are charged a small, reasonable fee to access the beach. Other payments
may be levied for services in the area, e.g. for parking or hiring of equipment.
FEE, and the National Operator in a country, reserves the right to refuse or withdraw Blue Flag
accreditation from any beach where the local authority/beach operator is responsible for
violations of national environmental regulations or otherwise acts in discord with the objectives
and spirit of the Blue Flag programme. Blue Flag beaches are subject to announced and/or
2
unannounced control visits by FEE International.
In the event of a first-time applicant, the applicant local authority/beach operator must provide
evidence in the application that the beach complied with the imperative water quality criterion for
Blue Flag in the season (or year) prior to application for full status. Applications will only be
considered from beaches where a minimum of 20 samples have been taken in the previous
season(s).
3
ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION AND INFORMATION
Each beach must have at least one Blue Flag information board in place containing all the
information as required by the criteria listed below. For long beaches it is recommended to install
more than one Blue Flag information board (approximately one every 500 metres). All Blue Flag
information boards must follow national standards with respect to information, content and
design. These Blue Flag information boards must be in place at all Blue Flag beaches.
Criterion 1. Information about the Blue Flag programme and other FEE eco-label must be
displayed.
Information about the Blue Flag programme must be displayed on the Blue Flag information
board. The correct Blue Flag logo must be used, in accordance with the FEE branding guidelines.
The essence of each of the four categories of the Blue Flag criteria must be explained in this
information. The length of the Blue Flag season must also be included.
The information could furthermore be posted at other locations, e.g. at major access points,
lifeguard stations, other beach facilities, or in parking areas. Tourist information offices should
also have information about the Blue Flag programme.
Contact details for the local, national and international Blue Flag representatives should be
posted as well.
In areas of international tourism, it is recommended that the information be provided in relevant
languages.
In the event that the flag is temporarily withdrawn, information must be posted at the beach
informing the public as to the reasons why the flag was withdrawn.
Blue Flag beaches and marinas must promote the Green Key programme as another eco-label
FEE programme with a message such as: “Along with the Blue Flag, the Foundation for
Environmental Education also develops another eco-label for accommodations: Green Key. Find
more information at: www.green-key.org”
Appendix B provides an example of how the Blue Flag information can be presented.
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
All regions
GUIDELINE CRITERION
Criterion 2. Environmental education activities must be offered and promoted to beach
users.
Environmental education activities promote the aims of the Blue Flag programme by:
increasing the awareness of, and care for, the local environment by recreational users
and residents.
training personnel and tourist service providers in environmental matters and best
practice methods.
encouraging the participation of local stakeholders in environmental management
within the area.
promoting sustainable recreation and tourism in the area.
promoting the sharing of ideas and efforts between the Blue Flag programme and
other FEE programmes (YRE, LEAF, Eco-Schools and Green Key).
4
The planned environmental education activities for the coming season must be included in the
application documents, as well as a report on activities carried out during the previous Blue Flag
season (if applicable).
There must be at least five different activities offered in the municipality or community - preferably
during the Blue Flag season. The activities should focus on the environment, environmental
issues, Blue Flag issues or sustainability issues. At least some of the activities should be carried
out at the beach and have a direct focus on the beach environment.
The education activities should be effective and relevant, and each year, the local authority
should re-evaluate the activities that were implemented and work towards constantly improving
them.
Where the planned environmental education activities are of interest to, and involve, the general
public or beach users these activities must be promoted in good time to inform the public about
these opportunities. Such activities could also be promoted on the Blue Flag information board,
in other areas in the beach area, in local centres, in newspapers and other media.
The environmental education activities must be clearly disseminated to the public. Preferably, the
activities should be posted on the common information board. However, dissemination could be
an updatable list posted at the kiosk or clubhouse, an SMS service or other means of
communication. Whatever the platform for dissemination is, it has to be stated on the information
board where to find out more about the activities.
Local authorities/beach operators are encouraged to implement and/or support sustainable
development projects in which public participation is a key element, e.g. Local Agenda 21
initiatives.
If specific sensitive natural areas (including Marine Protected Areas) exist near a Blue Flag beach
(e.g. mangroves or sea grass beds), it is strongly recommended that some of the education
activities address these sensitive natural areas.
Examples of good educational activities can be downloaded from the internal pages of the Blue
Flag international website (www.blueflag.org).
Appendix C provides further background on the environmental education activities.
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
All regions
GUIDELINE CRITERION
Criterion 3. Information about bathing water quality must be displayed.
Bathing water quality information must be displayed on the Blue Flag information board. It is
recommended that a table or figure with easily identifiable symbols that correspond to the results
be used. The information should also clearly explain how the water quality results relate to the
imperative criteria for water quality, with specific reference to sampling frequency and the
conditions under which Blue Flag status can be withdrawn.
The authority in charge of providing the bathing water quality results must do so shortly after the
analysis so that the data can be updated regularly. It is the responsibility of the local authority to
ensure that the beach operator/beach management posts the information no later than one
month after the sampling date. The complete and detailed data must be made available by the
local authority to anybody upon request.
5
Appendix D provides an example of how this information could be presented.
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
All regions
GUIDELINE CRITERION
Criterion 4. Information relating to local eco-systems and environmental phenomena must
be displayed.
The aim of this criterion is to ensure that beach users are well informed and educated about
relevant environmental phenomena (including valuable cultural sites/communities), local
ecosystems and any sensitive areas in the surrounding environment so that they are encouraged
to learn about and experience the environment in a responsible way.
Where appropriate, information about coastal zone ecosystems, wetland areas, unique habitats
or any sensitive natural areas must be displayed at or close to the Blue Flag beach. The
information should include details about the natural area and a code of conduct for visitors to the
area. If the full information is not available on the Blue Flag information board, there should at
least be a short notice on the board informing the public about the nearby sensitive area and
where they can find further information.
Relevant environmental information could furthermore be displayed at tourist sites, at the natural
areas, or in tourist information offices. The information can be published in tourist brochures, local
newspapers or pamphlets created specifically for this purpose. In areas that are visited by a high
number of tourists, it is recommended that the information be presented in more than one way, as
listed above, and it should be presented in relevant languages.
In the case of sensitive underwater environments, specific information about these areas must be
provided for divers and snorkelers.
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
All regions
GUIDELINE CRITERION
Criterion 5. A map of the beach indicating different facilities must be displayed.
A map showing the boundaries of the Blue Flag beach area and the location of key facilities and
services must be posted on the Blue Flag information board. The map should be of good quality,
easy to read and properly orientated.
Pictograms should preferably be used.
The required map elements (where applicable) should show the location of:
-
“You are here” pointers
lifeguards or lifesaving equipment
the area patrolled (for beaches
with lifeguards)
first aid equipment
telephones
toilets (including toilets for
disabled people)
drinking water
car and bicycle parking areas
-
6
authorised camping sites at/near
the beach
recycling facilities
location of water sampling
point(s)
access points and access for
disabled persons
zoning (swimming, surfing,
sailing, boating, etc.) where
applicable
-
nearby public transport
footpaths
demarcation of Blue Flag area
location of other information
boards
rivers and inflows
local landmarks (where
-
applicable)
storm water outlets
nearby natural sensitive areas,
etc.
direction (North)
scale bar
For guidelines on the design and suitability of maps of Blue Flag beaches, visit www.blueflag.org.
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
All regions
GUIDELINE CRITERION
Criterion 6. A code of conduct that reflects appropriate laws governing the use of the
beach and surrounding areas must be displayed.
The code of conduct should address the activities of beach users and their conduct on the beach.
The beach code of conduct must be displayed on the Blue Flag information board. The
information could furthermore be posted at other locations, e.g. at all major entrance points, near
to the issue concerned (i.e. a No Diving sign on a pier) or as information at the relevant sites.
Internationally recognised symbols, e.g. pictograms should be used wherever possible.
The code of conduct should include rules about the presence of domestic animals, zoning, litter
management, the use of vehicles, camping, fires, etc.
Laws governing beach usage and management should be available to the public at the office of
the local authority/beach operator.
The period when the lifesaving equipment and/or lifeguards, and first aid are available must be
clearly marked on the Blue Flag information boards and at the lifeguard station. An explanation of
the emergency flag system in use must also be provided.
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
All regions
GUIDELINE CRITERION
WATER QUALITY
The Blue Flag programme requires that beaches achieve excellent bathing water quality. The
bathing water quality standards have been based on the most appropriate international and
national standards and legislation.
Blue Flag is an international eco-label and it therefore has one minimum global standard for water
quality. The standards described here for bathing water quality for beaches must be adopted
unless stricter national standards are already in existence, e.g. testing for total coliform bacteria.
In that case, the beach must comply with the more demanding national standards for bathing
water quality.
Criterion 7. The beach must fully comply with the water quality sampling and frequency
requirements.
A Blue Flag beach must have at least one sampling site and this must be located where the
7
concentration of bathers is highest. In addition, where there are potential sources of pollution, e.g.
near streams, rivers or other inlets, storm water outlets, etc. additional samples must be taken at
these sites to provide evidence that such inflows do not affect bathing water quality.
Samples for microbiological and physical–chemical parameters must be taken.
Similarly, in the case of inland waters where the water is supplemented by outside sources during
dry periods, the water quality of the outside source must meet the Blue Flag bathing water quality
standards.
Samples should be taken 30 cm below the water surface except for the mineral oil samples that
should be taken at surface level.
How often a sample must be taken?
There must be no more than 30 days between samples during the Blue Flag season. The Blue
Flag programme does not accept applications from beaches, irrespective of the length of the Blue
Flag season, where less than five samples have been taken. I.e. a minimum of five samples must
be taken evenly spread out during the season. The first sample must be taken within 30 days
before the official starting date of the Blue Flag season.
When sample results raise concern of a possible increase in levels of pollution, it is
recommended to temporarily increase the sampling frequency in order to track any possible
pollution incident.
In the event of short-term pollution, one additional sample is to be taken to confirm that the
incident has ended. This sample is not part of the set of bathing water quality data. If necessary
to replace a discarded sample, an additional sample is to be taken seven days after the end of
the short-term pollution. Discounting of samples because of short-term pollution during the last
assessment period is allowed for maximum 15% of the total number of samples provided for in
the monitoring calendar established for that period, or one sample per bathing season, whichever
is the greater.
When calculating 15% of the total number of samples provided for that period, the result must be
rounded up or down.
The rule is:
Anything lower or equal to ,49 should be rounded down (for example: a result of 2,49 gives a
possibility of discounting 2 samples).
Anything higher or equal to ,50 should be rounded up (for example: a result of 2,50 gives a
possibility of discounting 3 samples).
Both the original and the re-samples have to be sent as a dispensation case to the International
Jury for the evaluation (see Appendix A on dispensation cases).
In case of an oil spill, abnormal weather or other extreme factors which can have a serious
adverse effect on the quality of the bathing water, the beach manager must temporarily take
down the flag and clearly state the reason on the information board. It is recommended that the
wording of this information is along the lines: "This beach has recently experienced abnormal
weather. Swimming is not recommended at this time due to the possibility of pollution."
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
All regions
GUIDELINE CRITERION
8
Criterion 8. The beach must fully comply with the standards and requirements for water
quality analysis.
An independent person, officially authorised and trained for the task, must collect the samples.
An independent laboratory must carry out the analysis of the bathing water samples. The
laboratory must be nationally or internationally accredited to carry out microbiological and
physical-chemical analyses.
In the event that the sampler or the laboratory is not independent, at the time of application a
dispensation must be requested and details provided as to why this is required, e.g. in some
cases beaches are substantial distances away from the services necessary to meet this
requirement.
Methods of analysis:
In the interest of increased quality and comparability of the bathing water quality data used for the
evaluation of candidates for the Blue Flag, FEE finds that methods of analysis that ensure a
certain trueness, reproducibility, repeatability and comparability between methods should be
used. FEE follows European (CEN) or International (ISO) standards in its recommendations
regarding parameters and acceptable methods of analysis.
Water quality results must be given to the National Operator as soon as they are made available
but not later than one month after the sample has been taken.
A sampling calendar must be established prior to the start of the bathing season. Sampling must
take place no later than four days after the date specified in the sampling calendar unless there
are exceptional circumstances preventing this. In such a case, the National Jury must submit the
beach as a dispensation case to the International Jury (see Appendix A for more information on
dispensation cases).
Sampling history:
The water quality results for the previous four seasons must accompany all applications. In order
to be eligible for the Blue Flag, the beach must show - through these reports - that the bathing
water quality standards were met in the previous seasons.
For new countries or new beaches, results from a minimum of 20 samples taken within the
proposed Blue Flag season must be available for Blue Flag accreditation to be considered. The
sampling history may be taken in one Blue Flag season in order to be able to apply the following
year. The applicant beach may also choose to take fewer samples and wait to apply when 20
samples have been collected (for example taking 10 samples in year 1, 10 more in year 2 and
applying in year 3). Remember that a minimum of 5 samples has to be taken per Blue Flag
season.
The water quality information of the current season must be posted on the Blue Flag information
board, in accordance with Criterion 3. See Appendix D for a recommendation for presenting
water quality information on Blue Flag beaches.
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
All regions
GUIDELINE CRITERION
9
Criterion 9. No industrial, waste-water or sewage-related discharges should affect the
beach area.
A bathing water profile must be compiled for every Blue Flag beach. A bathing water profile
includes identification of potential sources of pollution, a description of the physical, geographical
and hydrological characteristics of the bathing water, as well as assessment of the potential for
cyanobacteria and algae formation.
It is recommended that there should not be any discharge of industrial, urban wastewater or
sewage-related discharges into the Blue Flag area or immediate buffer zone/surrounding area. In
the event that there are discharge points in the area of the beach, these must be documented at
the time of application.
Where identified, combined sewage overflow discharges or other urban/industrial waste water
discharges are within, or immediately adjacent to, the proposed award area, information to warn
the public that there is an intermittent discharge which could, in the short term, impact the bathing
water quality must be provided.
The collection, treatment and discharge of urban wastewater in the community must meet
national/ international standards and comply with national/international legislation. For the
countries in EU, there are requirements for the treatment and effluent quality given in the EU
Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive (91/271/EEC). A number of new EU countries have
been granted dispensation from the EU Directive. Regardless of national/ international standards
and legislation, this waste-water or any discharges must not negatively affect the environment or
compromise the water quality standards of a Blue Flag beach.
Regarding industrial pollution, notification must be given about industrial facilities and plants in
the vicinity of the beaches stating their likely influence on the environment. Moreover, the
appropriate authorities must confirm in writing that the area is being monitored to ascertain the
environmental impacts of nearby industrial facilities and confirm that the facilities do not pose a
public health risk or environmental hazard.
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
All regions
GUIDELINE CRITERION
Criterion 10. The beach must comply with the Blue Flag requirements for the
microbiological parameter Escherichia coli (faecal coli bacteria) and intestinal enterococci
(streptococci)
The microbiological parameters to be monitored are given below:
Parameter
Escherichia
coli (Faecal
Colibacteria )
Intestinal
Enterococci
(streptococci)
•
Coastal and transitional waters
Limit values
Inland waters Limit values
250 cfu/100 ml
500 cfu/100 ml
100 cfu/100 ml
200 cfu/100 ml
cfu = colony forming units (of bacteria)
10
Accepted percentile:
For the evaluation of an applicant beach the Blue Flag programme requires 95th percentile
compliance of the above limit values. This is in accordance with the EU Bathing Water Directive
2006 as well as the recommendation of the World Health Organisation. The percentile has to be
calculated for each parameter and also met for each parameter. For example, if the 95th
percentile is below the limit values for Escherichia coli but not for Intestinal Enterococci then the
beach cannot be awarded with the Blue Flag.
Details on how to calculate the 95th percentile can be found in Appendix F. A calculation
spreadsheet, however, is available on the internal pages of the Blue Flag homepage. All bathing
water sample results should be entered into the spreadsheet and the percentiles will be
calculated automatically. This sheet should be sent to the International Coordination with the
application.
For EU countries implementing the Blue Flag it is imperative that an applicant beach is classified
as being 'Excellent'.
As stated previously, discounting of a sample may be considered in case of extreme (weather)
conditions. Should this be necessary, applicant beaches must be sent in as dispensation cases.
See Appendix A for further details on dispensation cases.
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
All regions
GUIDELINE CRITERION
Criterion 11. The beach must comply with the Blue Flag requirements for the following
physical parameters.
Water quality can also be affected by physical and chemical parameters such as oil and
floatables:
• There must be no oil film visible on the surface of the water and no odour detected. On
land the beach must be monitored for oil and emergency plans should include the
required action to take in case of such pollution.
• There has to be an absence of floatables such as tarry residues, wood, plastic articles,
bottles, containers, glass or any other substance.
Immediate action should be taken if abnormal changes are detected. This includes abnormal
changes in the colour, transparency and turbidity of the water. Should physical and chemical
pollution be detected repeatedly, the Blue Flag must be taken down for the remainder of the
season and the beach will not be eligible for the Blue Flag the following year, unless the applicant
fulfils the conditions for applying as a dispensation case.
Other tests can be conducted, such as the pH value of the water (its value ranges from 6 to 9 in
most bathing waters).
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
All regions
GUIDELINE CRITERION
11
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT
Criterion 12. The local authority/beach operator should establish a beach management
committee.
The beach management committee should be charged with ensuring compliance with all
environmental management criteria, including Marine Protected Areas requirements if
appropriate. The committee should consist of all relevant stakeholders at the local level. Relevant
stakeholders could be a local authority representative, hotel manager, beach manager, lifeguard,
educational representative, local NGO, and other stakeholders such as community
representatives, special user groups, Marine Protected Area representative, etc.
The beach management committee should co-operate with and support the local authority/beach
operator and could institute environmental management systems and conduct environmental
audits of the beach and its facilities.
Where appropriate, a beach management committee may operate over a number of Blue Flag
beaches within a local authority or an area/region, i.e. there is no need for a separate beach
management committee for each individual Blue Flag beach.
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
GUIDELINE CRITERION
All regions
Criterion 13. The local authority/beach operator must comply with all regulations affecting
the location and operation of the beach.
Regulations pertaining to issues relating to coastal zone planning, environmental management,
waste-water legislation, environmental legislation, and others must be met for the beach to
receive and maintain Blue Flag status. The applicant must assure that the facilities and activities
under its responsibility comply with these guidelines and/or regulations. The management of the
beach location, facilities, beach operation and immediate surrounding area must comply with
official development plans and planning regulations. The legislation may include regulations for
land-use planning, sewage/industrial waste effluent discharge, environmental health regulations,
conservation plans, operations licenses and permits, etc.
The location of facilities and use of the beach area and its vicinity must be subject to planning
guidelines.
This includes environmental impact assessments. At the time of application for Blue Flag status,
the applicant authority must provide written evidence from the planning department that all
buildings on the beach meet local building regulations.
Existing beach facilities, construction and other use of the beach and its vicinity must be in
compliance with laws regulating the use of the coastal zone or freshwater areas, including
environmental conservation regulations. The back beach area including dunes, paths, and
parking areas must be properly maintained according to coastal zone management principles.
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
All regions
GUIDELINE CRITERION
12
Criterion 14. Sensitive area management.
Some sites at/near the Blue Flag beach may be very sensitive and require special management.
In these cases, the beach operator is strongly encouraged to consult an appropriate conservation
organisation or expert for advice on how to manage these sites. Where areas require special
management, at the time of application, the applicant must provide confirmation that this
consultation has taken place and that a management plan will be implemented.
However, the sensitivity of certain areas may prevent them from being part of a Blue Flag beach
or from having information posted at the beach directing people to the area. An increased number
of visitors could endanger wildlife and/or habitats, e.g. using land space for the construction of
facilities, parking, paths, etc. As a general rule, Blue Flag accreditation is only given to sites that
can demonstrate management of visitors and recreational use that prevents long-term irreversible
damage to the local natural environment.
If a Blue Flag beach is in or near a Marine Protected Area, it is necessary to consult with the MPA
management in order to ensure compatible ecosystem conservation and biodiversity goals.
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
All regions
GUIDELINE CRITERION
Criterion 15. The beach must be clean.
The beach and surrounding areas including paths, parking areas and access paths to the beach
must be clean and maintained at all times. Litter should not be allowed to accumulate causing
these areas to become unsightly or hazardous.
The beach must comply with national guidelines or legislation concerning litter and waste
management. Beach cleaning may be mechanical or manual, depending on the size,
appearance, and sensitivity of the beach and its surroundings. In high use areas, where possible,
occasional mechanical sieving and deep cleaning of the sand should be done to remove small
particles such as cigarette butts, etc.
During storm water flows, the outlets and surrounding areas must be kept clean.
When cleaning the beach, this must be done with consideration for local flora and fauna, e.g.
where turtles may have buried eggs in the sand. The use of insecticides or chemicals for cleaning
the sand or surrounding environment is not allowed. The cleaning of Marine Protected Areas as
well as sensitive areas (sand dunes, etc.), must be done in accordance with the laws and advice
from the relevant authority.
For information about the management of algal waste and seaweed, refer to criterion 15.
To determine the cleanliness level of the beach, it is recommended that a Beach Litter Measuring
system, or similar system, be used. (See Appendix G for further details).
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
All regions
GUIDELINE CRITERION
13
Criterion 16. Algae vegetation or natural debris should be left on the beach.
Algal vegetation is generally accepted as referring to seaweed. Seaweed and other
vegetation/natural debris are natural components of both freshwater and marine ecosystems.
These ecosystems must be considered as living and natural environments and not only as a
recreational asset to be kept tidy. Thus, the management of seaweed or other vegetation/natural
detritus on the shore should be sensitive to both visitor needs and biodiversity. Natural disposal
by tides and waves at the beach is accepted, as long as it does not present a nuisance.
Vegetation should not be allowed to accumulate to the point where it becomes a hazard. Only if it
is absolutely necessary should vegetation be removed, and then consideration should be given to
disposing of it in an environmentally-friendly way, e.g. through composting or for fertilizer use.
Wherever possible, environmental specialists should be consulted regarding the management of
algal vegetation on the beach.
In some areas seaweed is dried on the beach for later use as fertilizer or dune stabiliser. While
this good practice should not be discouraged it is also necessary to ensure that it does not create
a nuisance for beach users.
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
All regions
GUIDELINE CRITERION
Criterion 17. Waste disposal bins/containers must be available at the beach in adequate
numbers and they must be regularly maintained.
Waste disposal bins or litter-bins (preferably with covers) should be of a suitable design and
appearance as well as functionality. It is recommended that bins made of environmentally friendly
products are used, e.g. bins made of recycled composite plastics or wood.
There should be an adequate number of bins on the beach and they should all be regularly
maintained, well secured, and spaced appropriately. Individual bin capacity, the number of users
on the beach and how frequently the bins are emptied determine the number and minimum space
between bins placed on the beach. During the peak tourist season, the spacing between bins and
the frequency at which they are emptied should be increased as necessary.
In summary, when choosing and locating bins, the following factors should be considered:
Bin capacity
Environmentally friendly products
Type and source of litter
Volume of pedestrian traffic
Servicing methods and intervals (including peak times)
Local environment, e.g. winds, high tides, scavenging seagulls
Accessibility, e.g. height, surface
The collected waste should only be disposed of in licensed facilities that are approved by
authorities on the basis of environmental requirements. The duty of the community receiving the
Blue Flag is to make sure that the waste is properly disposed.
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
All regions
GUIDELINE CRITERION
14
Criterion 18. Facilities for the separation of recyclable waste materials should be available
at the beach.
In the event that the community has a local recycling facility then containers must be made
available at the beach for these materials, e.g. glass, cans, plastic, paper, etc. The receptacles
should be properly designed and managed for the type of waste received, should be emptied
regularly, and be well placed for accessibility.
The recycling facilities should accommodate the collection and separation of as many different
types of materials as possible.
On application, the local authority/beach operator must indicate whether the local authority has
facilities for the recycling of waste. In the event that no such facilities exist, the applicant must
apply for a dispensation from this criterion.
Blue Flag encourages all local authorities/beach operators to promote recycling and waste
separation at the beach, even if the community does not have a local recycling facility.
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
All regions
GUIDELINE CRITERION
Criterion 19. An adequate number of toilet or restroom facilities must be provided.
The number of toilets/restrooms available at the beach must reflect the average number of beach
visitors during the peak season, the length of the beach and the number and location of major
access points.
The toilet or restroom facilities must be easy to locate through signage and through information
on the map on the Blue Flag information board.
The presence of showers (on the beach or in the buildings), changing rooms and nappy changing
facilities are furthermore encouraged. Restrooms/toilets may also be located in nearby shops,
restaurants, cafeterias or other establishments open to the general public. There should also be
facilities provided for disabled visitors (see criterion 32).
Toilet or restrooms facilities must be equipped with washbasins, soap and clean towels (paper or
cloth) or a hand-dryer.
Access to the toilet/restroom facilities must be safe.
Consideration should also be given to the design and maintenance of these facilities. They
should be
well-integrated within the built and natural environment and they must be regularly maintained so
as to present a well-maintained appearance and to prevent vandalism of buildings.
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
All regions
GUIDELINE CRITERION
15
Criterion 20. The toilet or restroom facilities must be kept clean.
The toilet/restroom facilities must be kept clean at all times. The frequency of checking and
cleaning the facilities must reflect the intensity of use. Beaches with a high number of daily
visitors must have their facilities checked and cleaned every day or several times a day.
The use of environmentally friendly cleaning materials, soap and towels is recommended.
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
All regions
GUIDELINE CRITERION
Criterion 21. The toilet or restroom facilities must have controlled sewage disposal.
Sewage or effluent from the toilets must not enter the ground or the water untreated. In villages,
communities, or in a municipality with sewage treatment facilities, the toilet facilities must be
connected to the municipal sewer.
For facilities located outside of areas serviced by the municipal sewage system and/or remotely
located beaches, individual treatment and regularly emptied holding tanks that prevent untreated
sewage, effluent or seepage from entering the ground or the water - and which do not adversely
affect the environment - are acceptable.
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
All regions
GUIDELINE CRITERION
Criterion 22. On the beach there will be no unauthorised camping or driving and no
dumping.
Unauthorised camping, driving and dumping must be prohibited on the beach. There must be
information about these restrictions displayed at the beach (as part of the code of conduct,
Criterion 6).
Vehicles (except for those used for the purpose of cleaning and safety, e.g. for moving lifeguard
equipment, or emergency vehicles) should not be allowed on Blue Flag beaches. For cases,
however, where vehicles cannot be entirely prohibited, it must be adequately justified and they
must be properly managed. Areas for driving and parking as well as car-free zones must be
designated and whenever the situation requires it, police or traffic guards must control the beach.
If vehicles are allowed they should be prohibited from entering the high water zone at any time.
The majority of the beach should be designated entirely vehicle-free.
Where there are no physical barriers preventing access to the beach by vehicles and where there
are problems with unauthorised vehicles, camping or dumping, bylaws should be put in place to
prohibit these activities. Information about these by-laws should be displayed. The use of the
beach or its nearby areas as dumps for litter and other waste is not accepted.
In the case of special events that involve the use of vehicles on the beach a special management
plan must be drawn up and applied to prevent damage to the ecosystem, as well as risks to
beach users. See Appendix H for guidelines on events on Blue Flag beaches.
Parking for emergency vehicles must be provided in close proximity to the beach.
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
All regions
GUIDELINE CRITERION
16
Criterion 23. Access to the beach by dogs and other domestic animals must be strictly
controlled.
On Blue Flag beaches, dogs and pets are permitted in the parking areas, on walkways and
promenades in the back beach area only - if permitted by the beach authorities as well as local
and national legislation. Animals in these areas must be controlled. It is recommended that a
Dog-Free Zone be created to prevent dogs and other animals from entering the main beach and
swimming area - this excludes guides dogs for the visually impaired.
If the beach is patrolled by mounted police measures must be taken to ensure that no faecal
matter contaminates the beach.
Wherever possible stray animals should be managed and systems should be in place to remove
stray animals from the beach. Measures should also be put in place to prevent access to the
beach by stray animals. In the event that stray animals are able to access the beach and cannot
be controlled, it is recommended that the beach operator/local authority erect signs informing the
public as to this fact. It is also recommended that information be displayed informing the public
what to do should stray animals be seen on the beach.
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
All regions
GUIDELINE CRITERION
Criterion 24. All buildings and beach equipment must be properly maintained
Consideration should be given to the appearance of buildings and structures at the beach. They
should be well integrated within the natural and built environment, should adhere to design
standards and meet environmental and aesthetic requirements.
Equipment on the beach includes facilities or services not discussed in any other criteria, e.g.
playgrounds and piers. Equipment must be regularly maintained and checked in order to ensure
that it is safe to use. Consideration should be given to: the cleanliness of equipment, its
condition, the environmental effects of paint and other materials used for maintaining the
equipment/buildings and any potential risk associated with its deterioration and malfunction.
Wherever possible, environmentally friendly products should be used.
To prevent access by the public, all construction work or hazardous structures must be fenced
off. In the event that construction takes place during the Blue Flag season, all Blue Flag criteria
must be met during the period of the construction. Also, the construction activities should not
impact on beach users.
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
All regions
GUIDELINE CRITERION
Criterion 25. Marine and freshwater sensitive habitats (such as Coral reefs or sea grass
beds) in the vicinity of the beach must be monitored.
If there is a sensitive habitat (such as coral reef or sea grass beds) located within 500 metres
from any part of a Blue Flag beach, a monitoring programme must be established to monitor the
health of the habitat (coral reef or sea grass beds) at least once a season.
An expert organisation or relevant authority must be consulted regarding the monitoring and
management of this sensitive area.
17
The “Reef Check” Coral Reef Monitoring Programme could be used. See Appendix H for further
details of the Reef Check monitoring system.
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
All regions where applicable.
GUIDELINE CRITERION
Criterion 26. A sustainable means of transportation should be promoted in the beach area.
This criterion refers to all actions that
encourage public and collective transport.
encourage bicycling, bike renting and facilities for bike parking.
support plans to organise traffic and reduce the peak traffic periods.
develop pedestrian access.
The Blue Flag programme encourages the promotion of alternative means of transportation, e.g.
beach shuttles, bicycle rental or free bicycles. Such initiatives should be given particular attention
in communities with high traffic densities in the beach area or where the beach is located in a
sensitive area.
It is recommended that the local authority/beach operator implements a traffic management plan
to reduce traffic volumes and the impact of traffic on land use and air pollution in the Blue Flag
and surrounding areas.
It is also recommended that information about the availability of sustainable transportation be
made available on the Blue Flag information board.
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
GUIDELINE CRITERION
All regions
SAFETY AND SERVICES
Criterion 27. Appropriate public safety control measures must be implemented.
The beach operator must ensure that safety measures comply with the national legislation
regarding beach safety.
Moreover, it is strongly recommended that the beach operator undertakes a safety risk
assessment for each designated bathing area. This safety risk assessment is to be carried out by
the appropriate national authorities or where applicable by a Full Member organisation of the
International Life Saving Federation (ILS), see appendix I.
The public safety control measures as recommended by the safety risk assessment should be
implemented in priority based on available resources.
Irrespective of the above, a Blue Flag beach with a high number of visitors must be
guarded/patrolled by an adequate number of lifeguards placed at appropriate intervals as
recommended in the risk assessment and according to the beach characteristics and use. The
number of lifeguards must increase according to peak usage, and a minimum of two every 200m
is recommended for those beaches which have not undertaken a risk assessment.
Lifeguards must have appropriate national or international qualifications. Certificates must be
checked prior to employment and must be made available to the National Operator upon request.
Lifeguards should only be employed for life-guarding and not in combination with duties such as
water sports, rentals and services, cleaning or other duties.
Lifeguards must be easily recognisable. It is therefore recommended that lifeguards wear the
18
internationally recognised red/yellow uniform. Lifeguards must be provided with appropriate
lifesaving equipment.
Bathing areas patrolled by lifeguards should be clearly marked out. The area should be defined
on the map, on the information board and/or physically on the beach with markers or flags. The
International Lifesaving Federation (ILS) recommends that flags and signs should be in
accordance with ISO 20712. Additionally, Blue Flag international pictograms should be used.
On beaches, with low hazard risks and with few1 users public rescue equipment can replace
lifeguards, unless the national legislation or the safety risk assessment states otherwise.
Public rescue equipment could include: life buoys, hooks, lifejackets, life rafts, etc. The
equipment must be regularly inspected and must fulfil national/international guidelines.
Where public rescue equipment is provided, it should be clearly positioned, visible and located at
regular intervals allowing it to be reached quickly from any point on the beach. On beaches
without lifeguards, maximum intervals of 100 metres between the equipment are recommended
for those beaches which have not undertaken a risk assessment. Public rescue equipment must
be accompanied by instructions for use and what to do in the event of a rescue. It is
recommended that the location of equipment is identified by an emergency marker. The location
of the lifesaving equipment/lifeguard tower must be indicated on the beach map of the Blue Flag
information boards.
The period when the public rescue equipment and/or lifeguards, and first aid are available must
be clearly marked on the Blue Flag information boards and at the lifeguard station. An
explanation of the beach safety flag system in use must be provided.
The lifesaving equipment must include access to an emergency phone, unless the risk
assessment states otherwise. The equipment should be regularly inspected and must fulfil
national/international guidelines.
The beach operator must provide safety instructions which must be posted on the information
board and other appropriate place(s) on the beach.
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
All regions
GUIDELINE CRITERION
Criterion 28. First aid equipment must be available on the beach.
The first aid may be available by means of a) a lifeguard on site, and/or b) an attended first aid
station with trained personnel, and/or c) equipment located in a shop or other beach facilities at
the beach, and/or d) directly available to the public on the beach. It is strongly recommended that
busy beaches and family beaches have first-aid stations with staff in attendance. First-aid
personnel must have appropriate qualifications.
First aid stations should have the following equipment a) adequate first aid stock (basic first aid
supplies such as bandages, gloves, disinfectant, plasters, etc.) b) cold water and preferably hot
water c) first aid bed d) oxygen cylinder and mask e) immobilizing trauma board (e.g.
immobilizing blocks or spider harness) f) other equipment (shark attack pack), etc.
First-aid stations or the location of first-aid equipment must be clearly sign-posted for easy
1
Few = Over a period of 4 weeks in the high season there are on average less than 50 beach users per day
19
location by beach visitors (including on the map on the Blue Flag information board). See
Criterion 5. In addition, the time in which first aid is available must be clearly informed.
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
All regions
GUIDELINE CRITERION
Criterion 29. Emergency plans to cope with pollution risks must be in place.
The emergency plan should cover a clearly identified procedure, facilitating efficiency in the case
of an emergency. An emergency could result from oil spills, hazardous/toxic waste spills entering
the beach from the sea, discharge of storm water, hurricanes, algal blooms that could be
dangerous, etc. An emergency in this context would be defined as an event which leads to a
large scale impact on the beach or bathing water.
In order to quickly address pollution at the local level in co-ordination with local authorities, the
following
should be included. The:
identification of people to contact in case of pollution.
involvement of all administration services and people necessary to intervene.
procedure for the protection or evacuation of people if necessary.
procedure of public warning and information.
withdrawal of the Blue Flag.
The emergency plan must specify who should be contacted in the case of a pollution incident. A
responsible local person must be designated for this position. It must also specify who does what
in the case of an emergency, including pollution incidents.
The emergency plan must furthermore prove the compliance with other national legislation in the
area, e.g. a national oil spill contingency plan.
As long as the hazard persists, the public should be informed of the pollution or potential danger
by posting information at the beach, at all access points, in the media, tourist offices or other
relevant means of communication. If the hazard is in the form of large scale polluted water then
the public must be informed that bathing is not safe and the beach should be closed to swimming.
If there is any infringement of Blue Flag criteria, and to ensure the integrity of the Blue Flag, the
flag must be temporarily withdrawn and information posted on the Blue Flag information board or
at the beach.
Emergency phone numbers for the police, first aid, and relevant emergency numbers along with
the contact details for emergency services, in the event of an oil or toxic chemical spill must be
posted at the beach preferably on the Blue Flag information board.
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
All regions
GUIDELINE CRITERION
Criterion 30. There must be management of different users and uses of the beach so as to
prevent conflicts and accidents.
Beaches that support multiple activities must have management plans to prevent accidents and
conflicts. This must include zoning for swimmers, surfers, wind surfers and motor craft. At the
same time, recreational use of the beach must be managed without negatively impacting the
natural environment, the biodiversity of the beach and with consideration for aesthetic issues.
20
Swimmers should be protected from all sea craft (motor, sail or pedal). Where necessary, zoning
through the use of buoys, beacon or signs should be in place. The same should be done for
surfing areas. Distinctions should be made between motor craft, paddle or sail craft. The use of
these various activities must be separated.
Powerboats and powered craft should operate at least 100-200 metres away from the swimming
area. The exact distance is to be determined by the local regulatory agency. Furthermore,
patrons who operate powered craft should be provided with guidelines for the use of their craft
and the location of different zones.
The relevant authority, for example lifeguards, must enforce the zoning of the different
recreational areas in the water. Different activities on the beach must also be clearly marked and
zoned.
Consideration should also be given to potential noise impacts from some activities (motorised
activities, stereos and kites).
If special events are to be held on the beach then these should be located outside of the main
swimming areas. In the case that special activity events prevent the beach from upholding the
Blue Flag criteria, then the flag must be withdrawn for the duration of the event. When such an
event takes place, users of the beach should be notified through public warnings at the beach
and preferably in the local media prior to the event. See Appendix I for guidelines for events on
Blue Flag beaches.
The beach itself must be managed in accordance with an environmental plan that protects
sensitive species and habitats at the beach. This can be achieved through zoning or other
preventative actions. In some cases, it may be necessary to restrict, disperse or otherwise
manage certain activities. Beaches with sensitive dune habitats must be managed in such a way
to protect these sensitive habitats, e.g. protective fences. Recreational activities must be
managed to prevent environmental degradation, e.g. coastal erosion or damage to vegetation as
well as to prevent birds and other wildlife, e.g. breeding turtles, from being disturbed.
Some particularly sensitive sites may require careful planning and management. In such cases,
evidence must be provided to show that recognised local conservation organisations or groups
have been approached and that a management plan has been drawn up.
Besides the use of physical separation of the different users, zoning should be clearly indicated
on the map
on the Blue Flag information board and information could also be given at access and entry
points (see Criterion 5).
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
All regions
GUIDELINE CRITERION
Criterion 31. There must be safety measures in place to protect users of the beach.
The public must have access to Blue Flag beaches without being a client of a certain hotel or
beach club. Access to the beach should preferably be free, although at some beaches public
access is provided through charging a small and reasonable fee.
Access to the beach must be safe. Beaches that are physically challenging must have facilities
for safe access, e.g. secured steps with handrails. Similarly, there should be designated
21
pedestrian crossings on busy roads in the vicinity of the beach.
Beach promenades and steps onto the beach must be complete and in good condition. The car
park surface must be in good order. Parking places reserved for the use of disabled persons
must be available and must be clearly marked. See Criterion 21 for information related to
parking on the beach. Other access paths must also be safe, with regulations for cars and
bicycles. Bicycle paths should be encouraged whenever relevant.
Where promenade edges are higher than 2 metres above the beach, warning signs and/or a
barrier must be in place to prevent accidents. This is especially important where the beach
surface is rocky. Consult criteria 32 regarding access for people with physical disabilities.
Visitors to the beach should be safe while on the beach. Information about safety must be readily
available. The times of availability of lifesaving services and first aid must be clearly marked on
the Blue Flag information boards or at the lifeguard station. In addition, an explanation of the
emergency flag system, if in use, must be provided.
If needed, adequate security must be available at the beach in the form of trained and qualified
guards responsible for patrolling. The guards must wear easily identified uniforms and should be
able to present their licence as trained security personnel on request.
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
All regions
GUIDELINE CRITERION
Criterion 32. A supply of drinking water should be available at the beach
There should be a potable water source at the beach, e.g. from a fountain, pipe, tap, etc. This
source can be in the restroom/toilet block or on the beachfront but it must be protected from
contamination by animals.
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
GUIDELINE CRITERION
All regions
Criterion 33. At least one Blue Flag beach in each municipality must have access and
facilities provided for the physically disabled.
It is strongly recommended that all Blue Flag beaches have facilities that allow access by the
physically disabled granting them access to the beach, surrounding buildings, and the restroom
facilities. It is a Blue Flag requirement that at least one beach in every municipality must provide
these facilities. It is a Blue Flag recommendation that at this beach, if possible, there is access to
the water.
Access to the beach should be facilitated by access ramps adapted to users with various
disabilities. It is recommended that the ramp design and material fit the natural environment and
wherever possible, environmentally friendly materials should be used, i.e. recycled composite
plastics.
Facilities should be designed for wheelchair and other disabled users and should comply with the
ISO Standard Code for Access. The beach must comply with national regulations regarding
access and facilities for people with disabilities. In addition, parking areas should have reserved
spaces for disabled parking. In the event that access ramps cannot be provided due to the
topography, e.g. at steep cliffs, the local authority must apply for a dispensation for this criterion.
22
If none of the Blue Flag beaches in a local authority can provide access and facilities for the
disabled, a request for a dispensation from this criterion must be documented in the application.
IMPERATIVE CRITERION
All regions
GUIDELINE CRITERION
23
APPENDIX A: Dispensation cases
All imperative criteria have to be complied with in order to obtain the Blue Flag. In the event of
discussions arising out of the National Jury processes and if an applicant has failed to fulfil the
imperative criteria, the National Jury could forward a beach to the International Jury as a
dispensation case. In the case of an application requiring a dispensation, the National Jury must
forward the case to the International Jury with the necessary background documentation and an
explanation as to what imperative criteria have not been fulfilled and giving reasons as to why a
dispensation is requested.
Dispensation cases may arise when a beach has exceeded the required limit values because of a
known, documented incident during the bathing season. Dispensation cases argued on the basis
of incidents considered unusual but not atypical of the site are not considered.
The most frequent request for dispensation is caused by exceptional/extreme weather conditions
impacting on compliance with the water quality criteria. A National Jury can in such cases give a
dispensation to omit a sample if the national authority’s controlling bathing water quality
regulation has officially approved such a dispensation. Furthermore, an official statement from
national weather authorities stating that the weather was exceptional must accompany the
request for dispensation.
For EU-member countries: if the request for dispensation of omission of a sample has been
approved by the European Commission, and written proof of the European Commissions’
approval is provided to the International Coordination, then the case is not considered as a
dispensation case.
If an incident of high levels of pollution can be attributed by way of documentary evidence to other
issues, such as an accident or another unavoidable incident, it is also possible to forward to the
National Jury such a candidate as a dispensation case. The documentation must show that the
problem has been rectified and that the pollution was undoubtedly linked to the incident in
question.
A beach can apply for dispensation when:
facilities are under construction at the time of the application but will be finished by the
start of the season.
-
-
owing to extreme weather conditions, the imperative criteria on the beach not being met,
e.g. signage or walkways, access to the beach has been damaged, etc. However, these
must be in place by the start of the season.
-
a beach is not accessible by the physically disabled yet it is the only beach in a local
authority to run the Blue Flag programme. The beach must present a plan for how and
when the beach can fulfil the criterion as a central part of the dispensation application.
-
the location of the beach is such that the distance from services renders it unable to meet
an imperative criterion, e.g. an accredited laboratory.
24
APPENDIX B: Information about the Blue Flag programme must be displayed.
[Criterion 1]
THE BLUE FLAG PROGRAMME
This beach has been given Blue Flag accreditation. The Blue Flag is an environmental award,
given to communities that make a special effort to manage their coastal/inland water environment
and beaches with respect for the local environment and nature. To attain the Blue Flag, the
community and its beach operators have to fulfil a number of criteria covering water quality,
environmental information and education, safety, service and facilities.
This effort by the local community ensures that you and your family can expect to visit clean and
safe environments at selected bathing sites. And it makes sure that the local community
maintains a basis for sound development.
Facts about the Blue Flag:
The Blue Flag is awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), a nongovernmental environmental organisation and is represented by such national organisations in
each of the participating countries.
The Blue Flag is an environmental award for beaches and marinas. Only local authorities or
private beach operators can apply for a Blue Flag for beaches. The criteria for Blue Flag beaches
cover four main areas: a) Water quality, b) Environmental information and education, c)
Environmental management, and d) Safety and services.
The criteria of the Programme are developed over time, so that participating communities have to
keep working on solving relevant environmental problems to get the Blue Flag. Blue Flag
accreditation is only given for one season at a time and the award is only valid as long as the
criteria are fulfilled. When this is not the case, the responsible persons at the local level are
obligated to take the Blue Flag down.
The national FEE organisation checks the Blue Flag sites during the season.
You can help the Programme by also taking actions to protect the environment:
Use the litter-bins on the beach - and recycle waste if possible
Use public transport, walk or rent a bike to get to the beach
Obey the beach code of conduct
Enjoy the nature of the beach and its surroundings, and treat it with respect
Choose a holiday destination that cares for its environment - and an environmentally friendly
hotel too, if possible. Along with the Blue Flag, the Foundation for Environmental Education also
develops another eco-label for accommodations: Green Key. Find more information at:
www.green-key.org
Local, National and International Blue Flag responsible parties:
Name and address of the local responsible person, national Blue Flag operator and the
International Co-ordination must be posted.
Text to accompany the names and addresses could be the following: “These are the names and
addresses of the local, national and international Blue Flag contacts. It will assist the programme,
if you could report on how these beaches comply with the Blue Flag standards. In this way you
can help ensure that the Blue Flag standard continues to be met.”
25
APPENDIX C: Guidelines for Environmental Education Activities.
[Criterion 2]
Types of Activities
There must be a mixture of different types of environmental educational activities for different
user groups, Some activities must be carried out at the beach and have a direct focus on the
beach or coastal environment. The different types of activities can be divided into five categories:
Activities for Passive Participation: This could include exhibitions, films, presentations, slide
shows,
conferences, debates, presentations by international experts, etc.
Activities for Active Participation: This includes guided tours, educational games, theatre/plays,
cleaning
days, coast observation days for marine beaches, diving/snorkeling orientation sessions, beach
inspections, photography or drawing contests, nature reconstruction projects, green technology
projects, “Adopt a Beach” programmes, community coastal monitoring programmes, etc.
Training Activities: This could be training for teachers, beach or marina staff, people in charge of
children groups, lifeguards, cleaners, law enforcement officers, specific national training
programmes, etc.
Publishing and Media: The production of leaflets, stickers, interpretive signs, postcards, school
and
municipal newsletters, books, T-shirts, bags, posters, radio broadcasts, etc.
Blue Flag Environmental Information Centre: It is strongly recommended that Blue Flag beaches
provide an
Environmental Information Centre (station, kiosk), where specific information about Blue Flag and
environmental education issues can be given. Such a centre or place must offer both activities
and exhibitions and provide environmental and nature information in order to qualify as an
environmental interpretation or education centre. Information about its location and activities must
be provided at the beach or in nearby tourist information offices. The centre should be open to
and have activities and information for the general public, not only local school children.
Target groups
The activities should target a wide range of different groups. It is important that the local authority,
together with other operators in the area, organise a programme to educate and raise awareness
within the many different interest groups that influence the use of the local environment. These
interest groups could be visitors, locals, tourism employees, fishermen, local industries, etc.
The types, amounts and target groups of activities should match the situation. For example, in a
major tourist destination, more than one activity per season should be available to the general
public.
Connection with existing programmes
The activities can be part of already existing environmental education programmes, held either
on-site or in the local community (Local Agenda 21 activities, Eco-Schools activities, etc). It is
also recommended that the local authority work together with local NGOs in setting up
educational activities.
26
Information about Activities
Information about the publicly accessible activities must be made available at the beach and
preferably also in tourism newspapers or magazines or posted in tourism offices. The published
information should include: what kind of activities, when and where are they going to take place,
who they are for, etc.
Not Acceptable
Activities that are not acceptable for meeting this criterion are:
Activities that are done to meet other Blue Flag criteria such as the general cleaning of the beach,
waste management, recycling, and posted environmental information otherwise required on the
information board (i.e. information on surrounding sensitive environments), etc.
Activities focusing only on tourism without a specific focus on sustainable tourism
Activities otherwise done by the local authority as part of the standard management of health,
safety,
transportation or tourism
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APPENDIX D: Recommendations for presenting water quality information on Blue Flag
beaches. Example of a coastal water beach:
[Criterion 3]
Beach:___________________
Contact person:___________
Local authority:___________________
Telephone no:____________________
Date
Escherichiacoli / Faecal coliform
☺
< 250cfu/100ml
>250cfu/100 ml
Intestinal Enterococci / Faecal streptococci
☺
<100/100 ml
>100/100 ml
Blue Flag and bathing water quality
This beach has met the Blue Flag water
quality standards. The bathing water is
continuously monitored for the different
types of bacteria shown in the tables.
The bathing water is tested at least
every 30 days. In the table you can see
when the water has been analysed and
how many bacteria were found.
What do the results mean?
Faecal coliform /
E.coli
Faecal
streptococci /
Intestinal
enterococci
☺
Below 250
☺
Below 100
Excellent bathing water
A small number of bacteria tell you that
the water is very clean - a high number
of bacteria tell you that the water may
be polluted and could contain bacteria
from sewage.
Above 250
Above 100
Is allowed a few times during the season
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APPENDIX E: the 95th percentile
The 95th percentile is a calculation method used to obtain the average amount of pollution. In
terms of Bathing Water sampling results, the value shows the results that are less than or equal
to the limit values 95% of the time. The standards refer to values that would be exceeded less
than 5% of the time.
The 95th percentile is derived through the following calculation (based on the explanation in the
EU Bathing Water Directive 2006):
1. Take the log10 value of all bacterial enumerations in the data sequence to be evaluated.
Zero values cannot be used and should be replaced by a value of 1 (or the minimum
value allowed)
2. Calculate the mean of the log10 values (μ)
3. Calculate the standard deviation of the log10 values (σ)
4. The upper 95 percentile is derived from the following equation: antilog (μ + 1,65 σ)
5. The resulting value must be within the limit values as stated above
A calculating spreadsheet is available on the Blue Flag homepage under the Internal Pages as
per January 2010.
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APPENDIX F: Beach Litter Measuring System – a method of mapping the status of litter on
a beach
[Criterion 15]
In order to determine the cleanliness on the beach, the Beach Litter Measuring System could be
used by
the beach manager or the national coordinator when doing beach monitoring visits.
The system differentiates between bulky litter (>10cm) and fine litter (<10 cm). It takes a closer
look at the
amount of litter in defined representative areas on the beach. According to the amount of litter,
beaches are
classified into different cleanliness levels (A+ to D). The method combines taking pictures and
making
counts.
At a Blue Flag Beach, the cleanliness level should be A+ or A.
Step by step guidance how to define your beach’s cleanliness level:
Bulky Litter
1. Define an area of 100m2 (10m x 10m) for your bulky litter count and photo (Choose the dirtiest
100m2 that you can find on the beach)
2. Count the units of bulky litter (>10cm) within the area
3. Take a picture of the area (to keep as proof)
4. Determine the cleanliness level with help of the beach litter indicator (see below)
Fine Litter
1. Define an area of 1m2 for your fine litter count and photo (choose the dirtiest area within the
100m2)
2. Count units of fine litter (<10cm) within the area
3. Take a picture of the area (to keep as proof)
4. Determine the cleanliness level with help of the beach litter indicator (see below)
Beach Litter Indicator
General
1. Keep a record of your measurements (date, time, location, circumstances, weather conditions,
cleanliness level(s) bulky litter, cleanliness level(s) fine litter, other comments)
2. Repeat these steps at different locations along the beach if possible
3. Repeat the measurement at different times during a season and different times of the day if
possible
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It is important to keep in mind that starting to use this system might require a bit of time in the
beginning.
Once you get some exercise or training, it will be a quick, easy and helpful tool.
For a more detailed version of the beach litter indicator, a description of the system, a training CD
or for
taking part in a training session, please visit the Blue Flag website or contact the Blue Flag
Coordination.
---------------1 The Beach Litter Measuring System was developed by the Keep Holland Tidy Foundation and
the Royal
Dutch Touring Club.
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APPENDIX G: Reef Check system for coral reef monitoring
[Criterion 25]
Below is a very brief description of the content of the “Reef Check” monitoring programme. For
full information about the “Reef Check” system and information about national/international
support, please consult http://www.reefcheck.org.
“Reef Check” is designed for use by volunteer non-scientist snorkelers or scuba divers. A local
“Reef Check” team should be established with a scientist and a group of snorkelers and divers
trained to carry out the analyses. The team members must be skilled at identifying the indicator
organisms and substrate categories. It is strongly recommended that the team attend a “Reef
Check” training session. If there are already “Reef Check” teams established at the national or
local level, these teams can be approached for support.
In order to carry out the monitoring, the following equipment is necessary: a copy of the
instruction manual,
indicator organism ID cards/books, GPS, transect lines, underwater paper and water proof
pencils/markers,
buoys, plumb line and safety gear.
If possible, the monitoring should take place at two depths: shallow water (2-6 metre depth) and
mid-reef (6 - 12 metre depth). Reefs in many areas are however not suitable for monitoring at
more than one depth.
A 100 metre transect should be established (preferably parallel to the shore). The transect must
be divided
into 4 x 20 metre observation areas divided by 4 x 5 metre gaps. For re-survey, it is important to
document or permanently mark the transect start/end points.
100 meters
5m
20 m:
Count
Fish/Invertebrate
20 m:
Count
Fish/Invertebrate
5 m gap:
No data
collected
20 m:
Count
Fish/Invertebrate
5 m gap:
No data
collected
20 m:
Count
Fish/Invertebrates
5 m gap:
No data
collected
5 m gap:
No data
collected
The “Reef Check” coral reef monitoring program consists of four types of data collection methods:
1) Site description (environmental conditions and ratings of human impacts) 2) Fish counts
3) Invertebrate counts 4) Substrate type measurements
The site description includes information about: location (overall and exact location), survey time,
nearby
population, weather conditions, rating of human impacts on the coral reef and the possible
protection of the
coral reef. The substrate survey includes the record of the substrate at points with 0.5 meter
intervals along the 4m x 20m transect. The substrate must be classified in one of the following
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categories: hard coral, soft coral, recently killed coral, nutrient indicator algae, sponge, rock,
rubble, sand, silt/clay or other substrate. In the “Reef Check” manual there is more information
about how to conduct the substrate survey and classify the substrate.
The level of coral bleaching, presence of coral disease, presence of litter and coral damage must
be noted.
Each region has different indicator fish and invertebrate species that should be counted along the
4m x 20m transect. In the “Reef Check” website and manual, there is more information about the
fish and invertebrate species to include in the counting and information about how to conduct the
counts. Finally, it is recommended to supplement the survey with photo and/or video
documentation.
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APPENDIX H: Guidelines for events on Blue Flag beaches
[Criterion 30]
Should events be planned for Blue Flag beaches, it is recommended that the local
authority/beach operator attempt to find a win-win situation in both hosting the event and
maintaining Blue Flag status. Events on Blue Flag beaches are not incompatible with the
management of the Blue Flag programme. However, the event should not compromise Blue Flag
standards. The Blue Flag should not be dropped simply because an event is planned on the
beach.
The decision to allow events to take place on beaches is ultimately the decision of the local
authority/beach operator managing that facility and would, as such, be guided by local by-laws
and other legislation. Should the local authority be concerned as to potential impacts on Blue
Flag standards, early contact and discussion with the National Operator is recommended. It is
reiterated that it is the responsibility of the local authority to ensure that Blue Flag standards are
met.
If necessary, additional resources, e.g. cleaning staff, portable toilets, etc should be brought in to
ensure that the standards do not drop.
Wherever possible, the Blue Flag area should be zoned (this to include the use of buoys – where
appropriate – in the water) so that a designated Blue Flag swimming area is still retained and the
beach can still fly the flag. It is not recommended that the whole beach be designated to the
event.
Wherever possible, every attempt should be made to ensure that all the Blue Flag standards are
still met on the beach during the event.
In terms of the criteria of Blue Flag, compliance with all environmental and building legislation
also applies to any events and/or the construction of facilities on the beach. This includes the
possibility of undertaking Environmental Impact Assessments or producing environmental reports
on the impact of the event on the natural surroundings. In this case, permission from the relevant
environmental authorities in the region would be necessary.
The public must be given advance warning of any events planned for Blue Flag beaches. This
could be in the form of posters or other information at the beach, through announcements in the
local media, or on local authority/beach operator websites if appropriate. A notice indicating
details of the event, duration of the event, where more information can be obtained, where
complaints can be made, etc. must be posted at the beach.
In the event of an activity that takes place on the beach after hours, i.e. for those beaches that
withdraw the flag at the end of the day when criterion are no longer being met, the beach
operator/local authority must ensure that the beach and the facilities be cleaned and returned to
order, before the flag is due to be raised the next morning, even if this means the cleansing
teams must work through the night to ensure that the beach is clean once the flag goes up. So, if
the flag is normally raised at 08h00 in the morning, the facilities must meet Blue Flag standards
by 08h00 in the morning.
It is recommended that the local authority/beach operator consider a fee to be levied on the
organisers of events hosted on Blue Flag beaches and that this income be used to make
improvements to the beach or within the local area.
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Appendix I – Guidance on ILS Safety Risk Assessment for Beaches
[Criterion 27]
INTRODUCTION
The International Lifesaving Federation (ILS) is the world authority in the global effort to prevent
drowning and works with national life saving organisations to improve drowning prevention, water
safety, water rescue, lifesaving, lifeguarding and lifesaving sport. FEE and ILS have therefore
entered a Memorandum of Understanding where FEE recognises ILS as being the world
authority in the global effort to prevent drowning.
FEE encourages national organisations and local authorities to work with ILS national
organisations when possible.
ILS will undertake risk assessments all over the world and take care that the information boards
according to ISO 20712 are placed at as many beaches as possible. When this is not possible, an
independent risk assessment may be conducted. Below are guidelines produced by ILS.
BACKGROUND
Risk management can be defined as a logical and systematic approach of identifying, analysing,
assessing, treating, monitoring and communicating risks associated with any activity or process.
In its Guidelines for safe recreational water environments (Vol.1) the World Health Organization
states: ‘Assessment of hazard and risk inform the development of policies for controlling and
managing risks to health and well-being in water recreation. … The assessment of a beach or
water should take into account several key considerations including:
• the presence and nature of natural or artificial hazards
• the severity of the hazard as related to health outcomes
• the availability and applicability of remedial actions
• the frequency and density of use
• the level of development.
PRINCIPLES
The purpose of hazard and risk assessment is to assess the probability that certain events will
take place and assess the potential adverse impact these events may have on people, property
or the environment or other adverse outcomes.
ILS sees the implementation of risk assessments for all aquatic locations as a key element of the
strategies to reduce injury and loss of life or other adverse impact in the aquatic environment.
A generic framework and the main elements of the risk management process identified are:
• Communication and consultation
• Establish the context
• Risk identification
• Risk analysis
• Risk evaluation
• Development of a risk control measures plan
• Monitor and review
This framework is consistent with the international standard ISO 31000 – Risk Management –
Guidelines on principles and implementation of risk management.
The basic rationale for conducting a risk assessment is:
1. Identify the hazards of a particular location and assess the risks of possible human
interation with the hazard.
2. Provide the basis for a risk management plan
3. Improve safety and reduce the risk of death or injury at the location
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4. Ensure the best use of resources and encourage effective management and cost
effective operations
5. Reduce the potential for litigation stemming from accident and management practices
6. Provide guidance for the development of policy, procedure and practices.
A hazard is a source of potential harm or a situation with a potential to cause a loss.
A risk is used to describe the probability that a given exposure to a hazard will lead to an adverse
outcome.
The job of accurately analysing the potential personal risk to the public at a coastal and beach
location is complex. The determination and evaluation of potential risks is made more
complicated in coastal regions due to the continually changing nature of the environment. Coastal
regions are dynamic environments where the presence and level of a potential danger varies with
numerous factors such as time, water conditions, weather and human interaction.
In order to effectively assess hazards and their associated risks, the assessor must understand
all the contributing factors that go together to create the danger, for example the beach
topography, the prevailing weather and wave climates, and the number of people who use the
beach and their chosen activity.
Consideration is required to treat (control) and manage the risks to ensure visitors can enjoy the
safest aquatic recreation possible. Solutions may include any one or combination of the following
“hierarchy of controls”.
1. Removal of risk; hazards, people or both, where possible (Elimination).
2. Remove access to the location at which the hazard may present a risk (Isolation).
3. Share the risk with another party or parties through for example contracts, partnerships or
insurance (Transfer).
4. Install a barrier such as a fence or vegetation (Engineering control).
5. Management (Administrative) controls that may include:
a. Community education programmes to raise awareness of potential hazards.
b. International standard signage to ISP 20712 will enable visitors to make informed
decisions on whether they wish to proceed into an area or undertake a particular
activity.
c. Supervision through the deployment of appropriately trained personnel such as
lifeguards.
d. Implementation of appropriate emergency management systems.
e. Use and appropriate siting of public rescue equipment such as life buoys/rings.
f. Zoning, such as use of marker buoys and flags to define areas in which noncompatible activities should be conducted such as power boats, swimming and sailing
6. Retain and management of the risk (Residual risk).
REFERENCES
International Life Saving Federation (ILS), 2007, ILS Beach Risk Assessment Policy
International Life Saving Federation of Europe (ILSE), 2007, ILSE Risk Assessment Guidelines
International Life Saving Federation of Europe (ILSE), 2010, ILSE Designated Bathing Area Risk
Assessment Report
International Standards Organisation (ISO), 2008, ISO 20712 Water Safety Signs and Beach
Safety Flags (Parts 1, 2 & 3).
Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), 2007, A guide to coastal public rescue equipment
World Health Organisation (WHO), 2003, Guidelines for safe recreational waters Volume 1 Coastal and fresh waters
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