Towards Blue Flag status: Current conservation-related plans and recommendations for Eastern Beach in East London, South Africa, by public and private stakeholders

Abstract

The Blue Flag award has become a prevalent tool for beach management worldwide. It applies environmental law and focuses on sustainable management of urban beaches. The literature reveals that Blue Flag beaches grant visitors’ assurance of compliance with approved international standards of safety, quality and acceptable user regulations. South Africa was accorded accreditation rights 20 years ago, to pursue this status as a sustainable ecological approach. Yet, a research gap exists with fragmented environmental legislation and policies, which continue to afflict certain regions, such as Eastern Beach in the Eastern Cape. The intensity of negative environmental impacts has caused deterioration of coastal conditions, fuelled by open sewage disposal, illegal littering and lack of environmental compliance. This has complicated conservation efforts and reached a critical stage, requiring urgent attention to eco-friendly and optimal management plans. This paper therefore aims to determine current conservation-related plans and recommendations to move Eastern Beach towards Blue Flag status. This empirical research followed a qualitative approach via virtual semi-structured interviews with twenty participants, who were tourism public and private stakeholders. Data was analysed using thematic analysis. Findings reveal that organisations are involved in planning and management of land activities to achieve Blue Flag status and are promoting environmental awareness amongst the public. The majority of participants felt that the status would improve the quality of the water, beach-front and environmental education and training. Current conservation-related plans include infrastructural development, such as sewage pipe replacement and environmental cleaning campaigns. Participants highlighted the need for enhanced collaboration on conservation initiatives; management of pollution and land activities; and public awareness and voluntary conservation initiatives. A proper needs analysis and the creation of environmental guidelines were also recommended. Findings provide guidance to stakeholders towards attaining the status, which can have positive socio-economic and ecological impacts on Eastern Beach and its surroundings.