December 4th, 2009 Aruba’s Beaches In the Process of Becoming ‘Blue Flag’ Certified
Aruba has successfully completed Phase One in the process of having Arashi, Mangel Halto and Baby Beaches become Blue Flag certified, an international certification program of eco labor which upholds quality standards in four main areas: water quality, safety, services and facilities, environmental education & information and environmental management. This six million dollar project is scheduled for completion next year, at which time approved Aruba Beaches will be able to display the prestigious Blue Flag.
The popular Aruba beaches of Arashi, Mangel Halto and Baby Beach were improved through integrated design to achieve better management and conservation of natural resources. This was done by landscaping, designated parking, demarcation of specific zoning for conservation areas, as well as public areas and the placement of facilities and awareness materials. The actual beach area is now wider, with fresh sand and new palapas (shade structures) that have been constructed in an updated style, with durable materials.
“Aruba is on a mission to practice sustainable tourism principles. We want to protect our flora, fauna and our natural resources. About 20 percent of our land is a national park. Another key natural resource is our pristine white-sand beaches that not only attract visitors from around the world, but are enjoyed by locals as well,” said Myrna Jansen, managing director for the Aruba Tourism Authority. “The Aruba Tourism Authority also organizes The Annual Aruba Reef Care Project, which is the island’s largest volunteer environmental initiative since 1993. Aruba is looking forward to becoming a certified ‘Blue Flag’ beach country and being part of a project that embraces the environmentally-friendly management of one of our most precious treasures, our beaches.”
In Phase Two of the project additional public facilities will be constructed making it possible for Aruba beaches to surpass the requirements of the Blue Flag criteria and obtain certification. These include increased signage to inform the public on natural and cultural facts, public amenities such as restrooms, and obtaining beachcombing machines to maintain beach cleanliness.
Obtaining Blue Flag certification is part of a larger Sustainable Economic Development program in Aruba. Beyond the beach, legislation is being drafted for Marine Park protection status for the island’s entire coastline and the development of better sewage, waste and recycling treatment facilities. The overall project is an investment of over 22 million dollars.
