New operator to continue momentum of coastal excellence at UAE beaches ad marinas
Dubai, UAE. [November 2nd]: The UAE’s primary environmental NGO, EWS-WWF today announces the successful introduction of Blue Flag, an international programme which has helped the country’s coastlines improve their safety and environmental standard. Blue Flag, a programme established by Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) will now be operated by Environmental Centre for Arab Towns (ECAT).
The Blue Flag is a world renowned eco-label, trusted by millions of people around the globe. The main purpose of the Blue Flag is to raise awareness on the standards of environmental and safety management and environmental education related to beaches and marinas. The Blue Flag Programme, which originated in Europe in the 1980s was brought to the UAE by EWS-WWF in 2008. As a result, many beaches and marinas across the Emirates have since been certified by EWS-WWF and the Blue Flag Jury and now waving the Blue Flag.
Ida Tillisch, Director General at EWS-WWF said: “We are immensely proud of the progress made by beaches and marinas in the UAE. Central to the ideals of the Blue Flag programme is the aim of connecting the public with their surroundings and encouraging them to learn more about their environment. By monitoring the water quality and following the Blue Flag criteria, such as having life guards and offering environmental education activities, a number of coastal areas now adhere to international best practice and contribute to the sustainable future of the country’s coastlines. EWS-WWF has taken great steps to establish the Blue Flag in the UAE. The fruits of our labor can be seen in the number of beach and marina operators who have voluntarily joined the programme since the launch. We are proud to announce that Blue Flag will continue under the efforts of Environmental Centre for Arab Towns (ECAT).”
In the last five years, Blue Flag has had many success stories however the most notable to mention is the fact that as of today, more than 25 Blue Flags are dotted across the emirates.
