A blue flag will fly above Colchester Harbour in Essex this year now that it has earned eco-certification from Environmental Defence.
The organization works with companies and governments in Canada to help enact policies that protect the environment. It is perhaps best known for its efforts to ban the chemical BPA from baby bottles.
Each year, Environmental Defence recognizes beaches and marinas that meet high international standards in water quality, environmental management, environmental education, safety and services. More than 4,000 beaches and marinas in 47 countries fly the flag.
"The Blue Flag is a symbol of a community's commitment to have a marina that both protects the environment and provides boaters with great facilities and services," says Program Manager Brett Tryon.
This is the first time Colchester Harbour has received the honour, and the marina is the first on Lake Erie to be recognized by the organization.
"Millions of people around the world look for the Blue Flag when choosing a marina or beach to visit," says Tryon. "It is truly a symbol of excellence."
This year, 27 beaches and marinas received eco-certification from the group.
They include Canatara Park Beach in Sarnia, Grand Bend Beach in Lambton Shores and Port Stanley Main Beach in Central Elgin.
