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Geoparks A Geopark is an area with a special geological heritage. It contains a range of sites important for their scientific quality, rarity, aesthetic appeal and educational value. It can also include archaeological, ecological, historical and cultural interest. A Geopark creates enhanced employment opportunities for the people who live there, bringing sustainable and real economic benefit, usually through the development of sustainable geotourism. In the framework of a Geopark, geological heritage and geological knowledge is shared with the general public and linked with broader aspects of the natural and cultural environment, which are often closely related to, or determined by, geology and landscape. The European Geoparks Network was established in June 2000 and now consists of 33 members in ten member states of the European Union. In February 2004 the European Geoparks Network was formally integrated into the UNESCO-endorsed Global Geoparks Network. The Global Geoparks Network, assisted by UNESCO, provides a platform of active co-operation between experts and practitioners in geological heritage. Under the umbrella of UNESCO, and through exchange between the global network partners, important national geological sites gain worldwide recognition and profit through the exchange of knowledge, expertise, experience and staff with other Geoparks. Since the launching of the Network in 2004, 56 selected high quality National Geoparks from 17 countries have become members. To see the list, click here, or below: |
UNESCO and the World Heritage Convention Other international initiatives
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