"Blue Flags of Europe"

Each year this programme presents an award to the coasts and marinas which meet strict criteria as regards the cleanness of the sea and the coast, good organisation and safety as well as the protection of the coastal environment in general. More specifically, the criteria for the award of the “Blue Flag” are the following:

A. Cleanness of the sea and the coast

1. Quality of swimming water verified by measurement of water samples;

2. Absence of industrial sewage discharge on the coast;

3. Treatment of urban sewage as required by the relevant EU directive;

4. Adequate number of litter bins which must be emptied at regular intervals;

5. Periodical cleaning of the beach from litter, cigarette stubs etc.

B. Organisation of the coast and safety of the visitors

1. Continuous information of the public regarding the quality of swimming water;

2. Immediate information if the water has become unsafe for swimmers;

3. Plans to deal with a pollution accident and to immediately inform the public;

4. Adequate number of sanitary facilities with controlled sewerage;

5. Trained lifeguards or direct access to telephone, lifesaving equipment and First Aid;

6. Safe passage to the coast and special care for people with disabilities;

7. No driving (vehicles and motorcycles) is allowed on the beach;

8. Free camping is forbidden;

9. Pets have to be supervised on the beach.

C. Protection of nature and environmental education

1. Printed information and publicly displayed instructions regarding behaviour on the coast;

2. Activities actively promoting the protection of the natural coastal environment.

"Awarded beaches in Skopelos"

In 2004, Greece had 378 beaches and 7 marinas that were awarded the “Blue Flag”, a fact that puts the country in a top-ranking position among the European countries. Between them, two beaches of Skopelos Municipality were awarded: Stafilos and Panormos.