It's back and better than ever! The Blue Flag and Green Key eco-label certification for marinas, beaches, boats, hotels and restaurants is back up and running in Sint Maarten where the EPIC Sint Maarten Foundation serves as the national operator for the two internationally recognized awards. Sites participate voluntarily and, after achieving specific goals, they are recognized for their high environmental, safety, and accessibility standards. Implementing the certification program has additional benefits such as reduced costs related to water, electricity, and consumables. The widely recognized certification attracts environmentally-aware tourists, offering a marketing advantage over other non-recognized sites. Both certifications are internationally managed by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE).

The Blue Flag and Green Key program was originally launched by EPIC on Sint Maarten in 2008; however the program temporarily ceased after Hurricane Irma devastated Sint Maarten/Saint Martin in September 2017. The recovery was slow and then the COVID-19 pandemic struck a few years later, hindering tourism, which is the islands primary economic driver. During the last few months, with the assistance, interest, and support from stakeholders including former certified sites, partners, and the government, the program has been brought back to life and started running again in January 2024. Local partners, including the Sint Maarten Hospitality and Trade Association, have demonstrated their support for this initiative and hosted EPIC at their recent trade show.

Blue Flag
The iconic Blue Flag is one of the world’s most recognized voluntary certifications for beaches, marinas, and sustainable tourism boats, with over 5,000 establishments in 51 countries. In order to qualify for the Blue Flag award, a series of stringent environmental, educational, safety, and accessibility criteria must be met and maintained. Central to the ideals of the Blue Flag program is the aim to connect the public with their surroundings and encourage them to learn more about and protect their environment. Environmental education activities are a requirement and are promoted to provide relevant site-specific information related to biodiversity, ecosystems, and nature.

Green Key
The Green Key certification was developed in partnership with hospitality and tourism industry stakeholders. Green Key has grown steadily since its launch nearly 30 years ago and now boasts more than 5,000 participating establishments in over 60 countries. Green Key is one of the world’s largest eco-certification programs for the hospitality industry.

Thank you to the government of Sint Maarten and other supporters for helping to renew this important program.

Do you want more information or to pursue certification in Sint Maarten? Get in touch with Program Manager Delroy de Lain at ddelain@epicislands.org.