Italian coastal towns confront Bandiera Blu award suspensions and ceremonies
On 18 July 2026 the municipality of Positano held a public ceremony to raise the 2026 Bandiera Blu flag, recognizing the town’s water quality, waste management and beach services.
In the Abruzzo region, officials in Pescara presented the Bandiera Blu flags to sixteen municipalities that met the Foundation for Environmental Education’s strict environmental standards, highlighting investments in water purification and sustainable services.
Conversely, Sabaudia’s Bandiera Blu status was suspended after 25 years because lifeguard services on its free‑access beaches were missing, a requirement deemed non‑negotiable for tourist safety. The FEE Italy president communicated the decision in a formal letter on 15 July 2026.
The Five Star Movement warned that Latina could also lose its Bandiera Blu if it fails to provide lifeguard coverage, adequate signage, clean beaches and proper waste sorting. The party cited ongoing deficiencies in beach safety, waste management and transport that breach the award’s criteria.