Puerto Morelos' emblematic "La Ventana al Mar" is one of eight beaches in Quintana Roo, Mexico that will be receiving the distinction for the first time this year on July 1, 2019, when the flag will officially be bestowed and flown over the beach thereafter. Thirteen across the state more obtained renewal of their status.
The destination had to satisfy 33 criteria across four categories in order to qualify: water quality, environmental management, environmental education, and safety.
The Blue Flag certification is issued by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), a non-governmental, non-profit organization based out of Denmark, which has gained international recognition as setting the bar for the highest standards in environmental management and stewardship.
"In this municipality, the youngest in Quintana Roo, we have worked for more than two years to get this certification that helps us continue to position ourselves as a sustainable destination in the world tourism and commits us even more to redouble efforts in favor of the environment," said mayor and president of the National Conference of Municipalities of Mexico, Laura Fernandez Piña.
In the Americas, Mexico is the country with the most certified beaches, with 55 Blue Flag beaches and three marinas, and it ranks 13 out of 45 nations participating in the program worldwide.
Fernández Piña is confident that the prestigious eco-label will help gain global recognition, and solidify its credibility among environmentally conscious travelers.
"It is a plus that we will have as a tourism center, which will also attract more visitors who are looking for sites with Blue Flag certification, which is synonymous with beaches with quality, safety and sustainability," said Fernández Piña.
She credits the strides being made in Puerto Morelos' sustainable development to the coordinated efforts of both the federal and state governments, in conjunction with the private initiative and support of its citizens.
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