A label awarded by UNESCO
In November 2015, UNESCO launched the “UNESCO Global Geopark” label as part of its International Program for Geosciences and Geoparks (IPEGG). This program aims to study and promote the links between a territory’s geological heritage and its natural, cultural and intangible heritages.
In these areas, the history of mankind and the Earth are closely intertwined. Geoparks seek to explore, develop and celebrate these connections between geology and other heritages, be they natural, cultural or intangible, and are therefore not limited to geology.
UNESCO’s Global Geoparks aim to reconnect people with the Earth, by highlighting the 4.6 billion years of geological history that have shaped the lives of local inhabitants. They also raise awareness among local populations of the importance of preserving the Earth for future generations.
UNESCO's Global Geoparks missions include :
- Identifying, protecting and preserving heritage: understanding and preserving geo-heritage to protect ecosystems and their interaction with landscapes.
- Education, information and awareness: informing people about the links between geological heritage and other heritages.
- Geotourism: promoting responsible tourism, while supporting local and sustainable economic development.
- Cooperation: encourage networking, both locally and internationally.
- Sustainable development: to ensure that every region awarded the label is committed to sustainable development for the benefit of its residents.
To find out more about Geoparks priorities, visit the official UNESCO Global Geoparks website.
The history of the UNESCO World Geopark label
1997: Four European territories join forces to create the Geoparks, with the aim of recognizing and protecting their exceptional geological heritage.
2000: Creation of the European Geoparks network.
2001: UNESCO supports the work of the World Geoparks network.
2004: Creation of the Global Geoparks network.
2015 : At the 38th UNESCO General Conference, the 195 member states of the United Nations adopt a new program: The International Geosciences and Geoparks Program (IGGP).
