The Regional Directorate for Sea Affairs held the fourth regional meeting on coastal bathing areas in Lagoa, S. Miguel Island, with the aim of assessing this year's bathing season and prepare the upcoming 2019 season, special emphasis will be given to the environmental education programme designated as "Blue Flag."
The promotion of public health, well-being and accessibility for people with reduced mobility, through presentations by the Ricardo Jorge Institute, the Portuguese Institute for Sea and Atmosphere and the National Institute for Rehabilitation, were some the topics discussed at this meeting.
The debate the sustainable management of bathing areas was based on the study entitled "The Green Side of the Blue Flag" and the sharing of good practices in environmental education implemented throughout the archipelago. It featured presentations by the Azores Sea Observatory and of the Municipality of Lagoa.
The promotion of bathing safety was emphasised, especially in terms of surveillance and rescue services, at a session attended by the National Maritime Authority and the Azores Life Saving Association.
Dialogue and sharing of knowledge and experience among different local, regional and national entities are essential for improving the bathing habits of residents and tourists. They are also important for promoting the sustainable development of bathing areas and improving the quality of bathing waters.
The fourth meeting on bathing waters was attended by fifty participants representing various entities: Regional Directorate for Tourism; municipalities of São Miguel; Santa Maria, Terceira, Faial and Pico; Vila Franca Campo Nautical Club; Health Units; Health Council Delegations, Port Authorities of Ponta Delgada, Horta and Praia da Vitória; Blue Flag Association and ANSA - Azores Life Saving Association, among others.
Further information on the bathing areas and waters of the Azores is available at www.aguasbalneares.azores.gov.pt.