On 10th June 2024, an official presentation of a book devoted to the Blue Flag award took place in Murcia, Spain. The event was accompanied by an all-day series of lectures dedicated to Blue Flag. The book explores the economic, social, and environmental impacts that the award has had across the globe and uses multiple case studies to dive into different cultural and economic realities and obstacles related to the local, national, and global management of the programme.
Blue Flag Beaches. Economic Growth, Tourism and Sustainable Management. edited by María A. Prats and Fernando Merino was written with contributions and insights from numerous industry experts and academics, specialising in economics, sustainable development, and tourism.
The study has covered the origins and development of the Blue Flag programme as a pioneer in the field of sustainable award and certification programmes. Past and present political and managerial challenges are also considered, exemplified by varying case studies from across 5 continents. The impact size of the programme is then analysed in regard to promoting environmental education, contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals, capacity building, and fostering community engagement. Finally, the future development of the programme is discussed, taking into account possible forthcoming challenges and opportunities.
The publication of the book was celebrated at the Faculty of Economics and Business of the University of Murcia. A selection of guest speakers discussed the transformation and significance of the Blue Flag awards both: in the global context and from the national perspective of Spain, one of the earliest adopters of the programme. Among the participants, representatives from local and regional authorities and institutions, academics, and professionals with a long-standing relationship with the Blue Flag programme were present.
The event was also livestreamed. A short recap here by the Murcia University TV
For the book description, table of contents, and book preview use the link here.
And a review of the book by the University of Alicante, here.