ROME, May 13 (Xinhua) -- A total of 487 beaches in Italy have been awarded the "Blue Flag" eco-label for 2025, recognizing high standards in environmental sustainability, cleanliness, and safety, the Italian branch of the Foundation for Environmental Education said on Tuesday.
These beaches are spread across 246 seaside municipalities and 84 tourist resorts, according to the new report unveiled at the National Institute of Research. Italy's share accounts for approximately 11.5 percent of all Blue Flag beaches worldwide.
The latest figure also marks an increase from last year, when 485 beaches and 236 municipalities were honored.
The regions with the highest number of awarded sites were Liguria in the northwest, with 33 locations, and Apulia in the southeast, with 27.
Launched in Europe in 1987, the Blue Flag initiative has expanded to include 51 countries. It promotes sustainable coastal tourism by recognizing cities, marinas, and water-based resorts for excellence in environmental protection, water and land management, public services, and climate adaptation strategies.
