ABSTRACT
The first Blue Flag beach certification appeared in Toronto, Canada in 2005. Since then, 32 beaches (and marinas) have been certified across multiple provinces in the country. Beaches and water recreation activities have always been a great draw for visitors to spend leisure time. If managed sustainably, beach areas can be a force for positive growth and recreation time and contribute to the economic success of a local area. Social and environmental impacts, however, can also be problematic for regions if not managed properly. Beach and water tourism has become a key part of local economic development and therefore many watershed conservation authorities wish to ensure safe and clean conditions. This chapter will outline Blue Flag in the Canadian context, first examining beach management and then the consumer. Both challenges and opportunities for Blue Flag certification in Canada will be examined in a post-Covid tourism and environmental management scenario.
