The Blue Flag beach concept is a well-known eco-label awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) in Denmark. This prestigious certification is granted to beaches that meet 33 criteria across four main themes: environmental education and awareness, water quality, environmental management, and safety and security. Globally, over 5,400 beaches have received Blue Flag status, with India proudly hosting 12 such beaches. However, Sri Lanka has yet to have any beaches officially recognized under the Blue Flag program.

In Sri Lanka, the Marine Environment Protection Authority (MEPA), in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism and Land, has been actively working to introduce Blue Flag beaches since 2023. The initiative aims to establish a total of 33 Blue Flag beaches across the country, divided into five phases. Currently, MEPA is focusing on the first phase, which includes five selected beaches: Pasikudah, Arugambay, Unawatuna, Bentota, and Mirissa.

To achieve this goal, Beach Management Committees (BMCs) have been established for each of the five selected beaches. These committees consist of both government and non-government stakeholders, all working together to meet the rigorous Blue Flag criteria and elevate these beaches to international standards. This initiative will not only improve environmental practices and sustainability at these beaches but also promote Sri Lanka as a top eco-tourism destination.

The Ministry of Tourism and Land has directly funded the development of Paikudah and Arugambay beaches as Blue Flag beaches, and both have already achieved several of the 33 criteria required for certification. These beaches have made significant progress in meeting environmental, safety, and management standards under the Blue Flag program.

In contrast, private sector involvement has played a significant role in the development of Bentota, Unawatuna, and Mirissa beaches, with these beaches also achieving many of the necessary criteria to qualify for Blue Flag certification. This public-private collaboration has positively contributed to the sustainability and management efforts at these popular tourist destinations.

Looking ahead, MEPA has set an ambitious goal of officially establishing Pasikudah and Bentota as the first Blue Flag beaches in Sri Lanka by 2025. Achieving this milestone would mark a significant turning point for the country’s eco-tourism sector, enhancing environmental standards at these beaches and positioning Sri Lanka as a global leader in sustainable tourism. The development of these beaches would help attract eco-conscious tourists, stimulate the local economy, and promote environmental conservation, benefiting both the tourism industry and the natural environment.