Looking ahead to the arrival of summer, there have been developments in environmental matters regarding one of the most chosen destinations by Argentinians for vacations: warnings about pollution on the southern beaches of Brazil.
A recent report from the Environmental Institute of Santa Catarina (IMA) raised alarms on the coast of that area. Something that puts the health of beachgoers at risk.
Pollution on the southern beaches of Brazil: what is happening
Last year, numerous tourists experienced symptoms of intoxication due to Escherichia coli, a bacterium that can cause gastrointestinal, respiratory, and urinary infections.
This led Brazilian authorities to strengthen controls with the Blue Flag Program, designed to monitor and improve water quality on the beaches.
Pollution in these coastal areas is mainly due to the lack of adequate wastewater treatment and the indiscriminate dumping of waste into the sea. This situation has prompted more rigorous environmental assessments, while the country seeks to mitigate risks and ensure safer beaches for visitors.
Which beaches are affected
Warnings for the beaches of Brazil.
IMA recently published an updated map identifying beaches with critical levels of contamination. Among the most affected are:
- Araranguá
- Balneario de Piçarras
- Biguaçú
- Garopaba
- Imbituba
- ItajaÃ
- Itapema
- Itapoá
- Jaguaruna
- Paulo Lopes
In Florianópolis, one of the most popular destinations, only 63 beaches are open to tourists, while in Camboriú, only 14 beaches meet quality standards.
What is the Blue Flag program about
Brazil seeks to regain tourists’ confidence and ensure that its iconic coastal destinations continue to be a safe haven to enjoy the sun and the sea.
Aligned with this goal, the Blue Flag program, managed by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), applies international standards to guarantee beach quality and safety. The criteria evaluated include:
- Water quality: suitable for bathing.
- Waste management: garbage collection and separation systems.
- Environmental conditions: beaches free of algae and plant debris.
- Sanitary services: well-maintained bathrooms.
- Safety: presence of lifeguards and medical services.
- Infrastructure: functional and accessible facilities.
- Clear rules: regulations on animals and coexistence.
- Accessibility: services for people with reduced mobility.
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