The beaches of Barril and Terra Estreita (Santa Luzia), Ilha de Tavira (sea) and Cabanas (sea) were once again awarded the Blue Flag. The announcement was made by the European Blue Flag Association on April 30, at the Vasco da Gama Aquarium, in Oeiras.
In 2024, 440 Blue Flags were awarded, including 398 on Beaches, 19 on Marinas and 23 on Ecotourism Vessels. 22 Blue Centers (structures on or near the beach) were also recognized where information is provided and Environmental Education actions are developed specifically on the Blue Flag.
The Blue Flag campaign began on a European scale in 1987, as part of the European Year of the Environment program. This initiative by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), with the support of the European Commission, aims to raise the level of awareness of citizens in general, and decision-makers in particular, of the need to protect themselves the marine and coastal environment.
The allocation is made annually to beaches, recreational ports and tourist vessels that meet a set of environmental criteria, safety and comfort of users, information and environmental awareness.
The beaches of Barril, Ilha de Tavira and Cabanas have held the Blue Flag since 1987. As for Terra Estreita, it has received the award since 2008.
