24/09/26: Directive (EU) 2024/825 – Empowering Consumers for the Green Transition and Blue Flag Sites in the European Union concerning the display of the Blue Flag from 27^th September 2026

The Blue Flag Programme is currently adapting to new European Union requirements concerning sustainability labels, which will apply as national law in Member States from 27^th September 2026.

In response to this new regulatory framework, the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) is proactively strengthening and adapting the Blue Flag certification architecture to ensure the Programme’s continued credibility and long-term development.

During this transition, FEE and Blue Flag National Operators are taking a coordinated, precautionary and proportionate approach to the display and communication of the Blue Flag within the European Union. 85 Beaches 9 marinas and 1 tourism boat were awarded in Ireland for the 2026 season. Beaches are awarded for the bathing season (June 1st to September 15th in Ireland), marinas and tourism boats can be awarded for up to 12 months, depending on their period of operation. For private and commercial sites FEE will be making available, as soon as possible, an additional independent external verification pathway. Eligible sites may voluntarily undergo an independent third-party desktop audit of their existing 2026 Blue Flag application and supporting evidence.

Where the necessary arrangements have been confirmed, affected sites will receive information directly through their Blue Flag National Operator concerning the continued display and communication of the Blue Flag for the remainder of their operational season.

Where such confirmation has not been provided or finalised, the precautionary measure of Blue Flag International is that affected sites should cease public display of the Blue Flag flag by the end of 26 September 2026, before the Directive becomes active on the 27 of September. As a result of these measures all of Ireland’s Blue Flag marinas and tourism boats regardless of their season of operation have been lowered in advance of September 27th.

This transition concerns the use and display of the Blue Flag label and does not affect the normal operation of participating beaches, marinas or tourism boats, nor does it change the fact that a site received the Blue Flag award for the 2026 season.

An Taisce and FEE remain fully committed to supporting Blue Flag sites throughout this transition and to ensuring that Blue Flag Programme aligns with the new regulations and maintains its long-standing international credibility and recognition.

For further information, please get in touch.