Yesterday, the Club de Regatas in Cartagena held the presentation of thirty-six Blue Flags, showcasing the region’s commitment to high standards of water quality, adherence to environmental regulations, and safety for beachgoers. This year, the region has gained three additional Blue Flags, bringing the total to twenty-nine beaches and seven marinas flying the prestigious symbols. Despite the progress, the Mar Menor has failed to receive a Blue Flag for the ninth year in a row.

Carmen Conesa, the Minister of Tourism, Culture, Youth and Sports, presented the awards and congratulated the municipalities for their commitment to sustainable beach management. She remarked that achieving excellence in beach and marina operations should be seen as an ongoing cultural practice rather than a temporary achievement.

Cartagena leads the region with ten Blue Flags, two more than last year. Eight of these flags are designated for beaches, with the recent additions of Cala del Barco and Calblanque marking the first time that all coastal regional parks have received this recognition. The awards were conferred by the Asociación de Educación Ambiental y del Consumidor, an organisation dedicated to environmental education and consumer rights.