Turkey has once again achieved the third position globally, after Spain and Greece, in the number of Blue Flag beaches for the year 2023.

The Blue Flag is a certification granted by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), based in Copenhagen, to environmentally safe beaches. According to the 2023 evaluation by the organization, Turkey has a total of 551 beaches eligible to raise the Blue Flag.

Leading the Turkish states in terms of the number of Blue Flag beaches is Antalya, located on the Mediterranean coast, with 231 beaches. It is followed by the neighboring province of Mugla, facing the Aegean Sea, with 110 certified beaches, and Izmir with 63 beaches.

Back in 1994, Turkey had only 6 Blue Flag beaches. Over time, the number has increased to 486 in 2020, 519 in 2021, 531 in 2022, and now 551 in 2023.

The Blue Flag is awarded based on 32 specific criteria, including the quality and cleanliness of the seawater, educational environmental activities, environmental management, the quality of services provided, and the safety of tourist areas.

Despite its rich cultural and historical heritage, Turkey offers a diverse range of stunning beaches to cater to the needs of every visitor. Whether it's the Mediterranean beaches in Antalya, the charming Aegean beaches in Mugla, or the coastal splendor of Izmir, Turkey provides an ideal destination to enjoy the sun, golden sands, and turquoise waters.

With this environmental achievement, Turkey solidifies its position as a fantastic global tourist destination for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts. The number of Blue Flag beaches is expected to continue to rise in the future as Turkey strives to enhance its efforts in preserving its unique coastal environment and providing an excellent tourist experience for visitors from around the world.

Edited by: Aldar Real Estate ©

Source: Anadolu Agency