Organizing the world's certified-clean-beach data

Blue Flag is the world's most recognized voluntary eco-label for beaches, marinas, and sustainable tourism boats. Established in 1985 and run internationally by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), the program now certifies thousands of sites across dozens of countries — see blueflag.global.

A flag is never permanent. Sites must re-qualify every year against strict criteria in four areas:

• Water quality — bathing water must meet the "excellent" classification, verified by regular sampling.
• Environmental education — sites must run awareness activities and display environmental information.
• Safety and services — lifeguards or rescue equipment, first aid, accessibility, and clean facilities.
• Environmental management — waste handling, protection of sensitive habitats, and sustainable transport options.

When you see a Blue Flag flying, it means the site passed all of this — this season, not just once upon a time.