The municipality of L'Alfàs del Pi actively participated in the III International Blue Flag Congress, held in Islantilla (Huelva) until October 2nd. L'Alfàs was highlighted as a best practice example in the development of the Blue Centers project, sharing its experience in environmental education and outreach with representatives from other municipalities and sector professionals.
The Councilor for Tourism, Beaches, and Environment, Luis Miguel Morant, spoke at the event to present the model developed by L'Alfàs, which currently boasts six recognized Blue Centers, the highest number in Europe. These include the Faro de l'Albir Interpretation Center, CIPM Los Carrascos, the ‘La Antigua Cantera’ Environmental Interpretation Center, the Carabineros Environmental Education Center, the Villa Romana de l'Albir Open-Air Museum, and the Escoles Velles Cultural Space.
During his presentation, Morant detailed how these centers combine the protection and enhancement of natural and cultural heritage with environmental information, education, and interpretation activities aimed at both residents and visitors. “Participating in this congress as a best practice experience is a recognition of the work that has been ongoing in L'Alfàs for years, but also an opportunity to learn and continue incorporating new ideas,” stated the councilor.
Morant emphasized that L'Alfàs's Blue Centers demonstrate that “environmental education can be part of the tourist experience and simultaneously contribute to citizens knowing, valuing, and protecting our environment.” The L'Alfàs model, he explained, “goes beyond beach management and focuses on showcasing the municipality's natural, historical, and cultural resources,” with the link between tourism, conservation, and outreach being the result of a continuous strategy.
L'Alfàs del Pi's participation in this third edition solidifies the municipality's relationship with the Blue Flag program, following its co-hosting of the II International Blue Flag Congress in 2024 alongside Gandia, reinforcing its role as a hub for exchanging experiences in sustainability and coastal destination management.
“"The exchange of experiences between municipalities is fundamental to moving towards more sustainable tourism. We return from this congress with new knowledge and, above all, with the satisfaction of having shown that environmental education and outreach are effective tools for protecting our heritage and enhancing the visitor experience."
