Green Flag Award: Raising the standard

Sandra Nicholson, Senior Lecturer

Writtle University College

The Green Flag Award resource document offers an inside look at how parks and green spaces are assessed and recognized for excellence, outlining the award’s purpose, judging process, and the rigorous criteria used to evaluate management, sustainability, biodiversity, community involvement, and overall visitor experience. It explains how judges review management plans, conduct on‑site evaluations, and provide constructive feedback, while highlighting examples of best practices such as environmental sustainability initiatives, heritage conservation, and community‑driven projects. Through its detailed breakdown of the award system, the document showcases the importance of well‑managed, publicly accessible green spaces and encourages continuous improvement across environmental stewardship, safety, inclusivity, and long‑term planning.