The Role of Environmentally Conscious Interior Architecture in Supporting the Blue Flag Program's Objectives for Enhancing Sustainable Coastal Tourism Experiences in Egypt.

Document Type : Original Article

Author

Faculty of Fine Arts - Alexandria University

Abstract

Coastal areas in Egypt, particularly the North Coast, face significant environmental challenges due to rapid urban expansion and tourism development. The core issue lies in balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability to ensure the long-term viability of coastal ecosystems. This study explores how environmentally friendly interior design for coastal beach homes in New Ras El Hekma City can support the objectives of the Blue Flag program and promote sustainable coastal tourism within the blue economy sectors. The hypotheses are that implementing environmentally friendly interior design will reduce the environmental impact of coastal projects and that sustainable design practices will attract environmentally conscious tourists, thereby boosting the local economy. The methodology includes a comprehensive review of available literature on sustainable interior design and coastal tourism, and case studies of similar projects. The New Ras El Hekma area in northern Egypt has been selected for study and analysis to obtain the "Blue Flag" eco-label. This will be achieved through a proposed interior design for coastal beach homes in this area, using environmentally friendly beach home interior design principles within the Mediterranean basin coast, including its coastal residential, commercial, and natural areas. The economic and political stability of the region may also affect the feasibility and implementation of the proposed solutions. The study is critical because it addresses the urgent need for sustainable development in coastal areas, aligning with global environmental standards and Egypt's Vision 2030. The significance of this research lies in its potential to provide a model for sustainable coastal development that can be applied in other areas. By integrating environmentally friendly interior design and adhering to the principles and standards of the Blue Flag program, the New Ras El Hekma City can enhance the tourism experience, support the blue economy, and contribute to a more sustainable future for coastal areas in Egypt. This study aims to demonstrate that economic growth and environmental sustainability are not mutually exclusive but can be achieved through innovative design and sustainable practices

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