site.btaBlue Flag Award for Albena Beach

Albena Beach received the Blue Flag for the 29th consecutive year, resort Sports Sector head Stoyan Zlatev told BTA's Mihaela Dimitrova.

The award, granted by the Foundation for Environmental Education, is recognized worldwide as a standard for quality and sustainable beach management, Zlatev added.

Maintaining the status demands constant teamwork and significant investment. “The main challenges include keeping excellent sea-water quality despite climate change and heavier visitor traffic, regular staff training, efficient waste management and prevention of micro-plastics, while ensuring accessibility and comfort for all guests, including people with disabilities,” Zlatev said.

The distinction has boosted demand for Albena, particularly among visitors from Scandinavia, Germany and France, he noted. “They see the flag as a guarantee of quality and safety and it matches their values of responsible consumption and environmental protection,” Zlatev said.

Tourist behaviour has improved in recent years. “Visitors use less plastic, join beach clean-ups and show interest in recycling,” he said, adding that information reaches guests through eco-boards, screens, themed events and volunteer activities run by trained staff.

Several initiatives this summer will target plastic packaging and cigarette butts. Interactive zones for children and families will offer demonstrations and games, the recycling network will be expanded and new bins will be installed, Zlatev said.

The resort has introduced a real-time sea-water monitoring system and plans to launch biodegradable beach accessories with local producers, he added. “Innovation creates a sustainable tourism environment and raises visitor awareness. Thanks to these measures we have sharply reduced beach waste, improved children’s environmental culture and secured stronger community engagement,” Zlatev said.

Early bookings point to a strong 2025 season. “Interest is steady, especially from Germany, Poland, Czechia and Romania, and we expect more families with children and eco-tourists,” Zlatev said, adding that the first hotels opened in mid-April and all properties will be fully operational by mid-June.

BTA is presenting all 30 Bulgarian beaches and harbours distinguished with the Blue Flag by the programme’s international jury in Copenhagen. This year marks the 30th anniversary of the country’s first award – the pilot Blue Flag was raised at Sunny Beach on July 4, 1995.