Blue Flag Ireland

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Blue Flag Ireland The Blue Flag recognizes sustainable management of beaches, marinas and boating tourism operations worldwide.

The Blue Flag is operated in Ireland by the Environmental Education Unit of An Taisce on behalf of the Foundation for Environmental Education. The concept of the Blue Flag originated in France in 1985. The criteria for the Blue Flag award covered sewage treatment and bathing water quality. FEE presented this concept to the European Commission, and subsequently the Blue Flag Programme was launched in 1987 as one of several “European Year of the Environment” activities in the European Community. In 1987, 244 beaches and 208 marinas from 10 countries were awarded the Blue Flag. Since 1987 the number of beaches and marinas participating in the programme has increased, despite ever-stricter criteria. In 2004, 2,333 beaches and 605 marinas were awarded the Blue Flag throughout the world. In 2016 more than 4000 sites were awarded Blue Flag status worldwide.

As SDG Week has recently concluded, it's a great reminder of how the Blue Flag Programme contributes to a more sustainab...
28/09/2026

As SDG Week has recently concluded, it's a great reminder of how the Blue Flag Programme contributes to a more sustainable future. From clean water and climate action to education and strong partnerships, Blue Flag supports many of the UN Sustainable Development Goals. 🌍

Bathing season has concluded in Ireland on 15th September. Out of season bathing? Know the risks. Follow for more and vi...
21/09/2026

Bathing season has concluded in Ireland on 15th September.

Out of season bathing? Know the risks. Follow for more and visit our website: beachawards.ie

Highlights of the 2026 BF season: Duncannon reclaiming the Blue flag for the first time in 19 years.The First BF awarded...
15/09/2026

Highlights of the 2026 BF season: Duncannon reclaiming the Blue flag for the first time in 19 years.

The First BF awarded to them in 1988- L-R: Kathleen Colfer (kneeling), Catherine Power, Walter Foley, Walter's father John Foley, and Peggy Glennon (kneeling)

The most recent BF awarded in 2026- L-R: Kathleen Colfer, Catherine Power's son Connell in her place, Walter, Walter's brother Liam in place of their father, and Peggy Glennon

08/06/2026

This :
✔️ Reduce plastic use
✔️ Respect marine life
✔️ Support Blue Flag beaches
Small changes = big impact.
💙 Protect what you love.

In Ireland, the Blue Flag award season coincides with the bathing season, which runs from 1 June to 15 September each ye...
31/05/2026

In Ireland, the Blue Flag award season coincides with the bathing season, which runs from 1 June to 15 September each year. To protect bather health, all Blue Flag beaches are required to have an excellent water quality classification. The rolling classification is based upon the most recent four years of microbiological
data (E. coli and Intestinal Enterococci).

As Blue Flags fly for the first time in 2026 this weekend make sure to check the Blue Flag noticeboard for the latest water quality. If you are planning on going for a dip make sure to check out the lifeguard times and follow the safety flags. An explanation of the both the water quality requirements and safety flags is posted at the common Blue Flag information board at awarded beaches.

Check out the full list of Blue Flag beaches in Ireland for 2026 at beachawards.ie/blue-flag

26/05/2026

Video Highlights: Blue Flag and Green Coast Awards 2026 (15-05-2026) hosted by at The Mall, Youghal, Co. Cork.

These awards bestow international recognition on our beaches, marinas and boats and follow the highest standards with regard to water quality, health and safety, environmental management, information provision and inclusion. A massive thanks to all the Local Authorities, marina and boat operators and local community groups for their hard work manging these sites. We continue to work with them to protect our shores.

The Blue Flag programme in Ireland is supported by the .localgov.heritage.The Green Coast Award is operated by with the support of the and

Today, on International Biodiversity Day, we are reminded that every coastline, habitat, species, and ecosystem plays a ...
22/05/2026

Today, on International Biodiversity Day, we are reminded that every coastline, habitat, species, and ecosystem plays a vital role in protecting our planet.

Through the Blue Flag programme, we continue working together to care for our beaches, waterways, and natural environments, preserving them for future generations.

As the National operators of the  programme in Ireland,  are proud to announce the Blue Flag Award recipients in Ireland...
15/05/2026

As the National operators of the programme in Ireland, are proud to announce the Blue Flag Award recipients in Ireland for the 2026 season.

Address

Blue Flag Ireland, An Taisce, 5 Foster Place, Dublin 2, D02 VOP9
Dublin
D08TN88

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 5pm
Tuesday 9:15am - 5pm
Wednesday 9:15am - 5pm
Thursday 9:15am - 5pm
Friday 9:15am - 5pm

Telephone

+35314002229

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