Blue Flags 2008
Posted by evdomada on July 9, 2008
The blue flags for 2008 were announced on the 5th June. The Hellenic Society for Protection of Nature has handled the international “Blue Flags” programme in Greece since 1992. The “Blue Flag”, a symbol of quality in about 40 countries today, is awarded with strict criteria to organised beaches and marinas operated by coastal municipalities, hotels and other operators. The programme aims at cleanliness of sea and beach, safety and proper services for bathers and visitors, creation of environmental sensitivity and active protection of the coastal region.
This year Greece is the second most highest nation with 430 awarded beaches. The number of beaches rose slightly from last year’s 428 beaches that were awarded the blue flag. Spain was first with the most clean beaches and Turkey was third.
In Greece, the prefecture with the most blue flags is Chalkidiki with 46 beaches awarded the blue flag, followed by the Dodecanese and Lasithi prefectures. The municipality awarded the most blue flags is the Municipality of Kallithea in Rhodes awarded with 26 blue flags. Crete has in total 96 blue flag beaches, Corfu with 32 blue flags and Rhodes 31 blue flags. Athens and the wider prefecture of Attiki was only awarded 9 clean beaches … not surprised to be honest.
To view all the beaches in Greece and the rest of the world or to find out more about the process and criteria that are used for the assessments you can visit the official blue flag website http://www.blueflag.org
You can also view the Greek beaches and more information on the Hellenic Society for Protection of Nature visit http://www.eepf.gr/blueflag.htm
Source: www.forthnet.gr
