Thirty-eight beaches in Greece were removed from the prestigious “blue-flag” program, judged to have failed in meeting the strict criteria.
The blue-flag, the most recognizable ecological symbol in the world, was removed from beaches located in Achaia, Thessaloniki, Zakynthos, Santorini, Kefalonia, Lassithi and Fthiotida.
According to the announcement of the Program Coordinating Committee, international inspectors and officials from the Hellenic Society for the Protection of Nature, the national operator of the program, found serious shortcomings.
Most were concerned with lack of adequate services for bathers and visitors, substandard cleanliness and lack of appropriate security measures.
In May, it was announced that Greece is the second country worldwide for its number of blue-flag beaches.
Almost 520 of the country’s beaches were awarded the prestigious blue-flag status. The top area in Greece, for this year again, is Halkidiki with 89 flags.
