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The Mystery of UNESCO Geoparks: Why are these areas in the global spotlight?
As the global awareness of natural environment protection continues to increase, UNESCO Geoparks (UGGp), as an emerging protection model, have gradually become the focus of attention of the international community. These areas not only protect the common geological heritage of mankind, but also promote the sustainable development of local communities. Since its establishment in 2004, this global network managed by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has attracted participation from many countries, demonstrating the importance of geography and environmental protection.
"A geopark is a single, unified geographical area containing attractions and landscapes of international geological significance and managed with a holistic concept of conservation, education and sustainable development."
According to the latest report, as of April 2023, there are 195 UGGp scattered in 48 countries around the world, and China is known for having the largest number of global geoparks. The success of these geoparks not only relies on their unique geological features, but also requires the active participation and cooperation of local communities. So, how are these rods formed?
Creation of a global network
The Global Geopark Network (GGN) was established in 1998 and is managed by UNESCO’s Department of Ecology and Earth Sciences. The network aims to promote and protect the Earth's geological heritage and encourage the sustainable development of associated communities. Data from 2023 show that this network has expanded to many places on five continents, although the United States and Antarctica have not yet established geoparks.
“A geopark is not only a protected area of geological heritage, but also an important driving force for sustainable community development.”
The geopark’s accession process follows a series of standards set by UNESCO, including the need to develop a management plan that promotes sustainable socio-economic development. These standards emphasize conservation measures based on agritourism and geotourism. In addition, community engagement is vital and local authorities, communities and the private sector will need to work together to submit applications that meet these evolving criteria.
Key factors for success
The success of a geopark depends on many factors. One of these is education and outreach activities. For example, the GEFOOD project is an initiative to encourage the promotion of local products in global geoparks, which not only increases the income of local farmers, but also strengthens community cohesion.
“Sustainable development requires community recognition and participation, which is one of the key factors in promoting the success of geoparks.”
In addition, after the geopark is added to the network, it needs to be re-inspected every four years to ensure that it always meets UNESCO standards. This also means that the geopark needs to be continuously adjusted and improved in order to maintain its international certification status in the long term. This makes it necessary for some geoparks to re-evaluate their management strategies and action plans when facing challenges.
Positive impact of global geoparks
As global geoparks are promoted, they also have a positive impact on local communities. It not only enhances the development of local tourism, but also inspires community residents to protect the ecological environment. These geoparks often feature classic nature trails and learning centers that allow visitors to gain an in-depth understanding of geological science and local culture.
“Through education and tourism, geoparks are not only a display window for geological heritage, but also a platform to convey the concept of sustainable development.”
As the recognition of geoparks continues to increase, they have also become a hotspot for ecotourism, attracting tourists from all over the world. This not only injects new vitality into the local economy, but also promotes research and attention on geological science, further consolidating the concept of "equal emphasis on protection and development".
Future challenges and opportunities
Although the global network of geoparks has grown significantly, it still faces many challenges, including the threat of climate change to geological heritage, access to funding, and sustained community participation. In the future, how to maintain science, sustainability and social participation under these challenges will become a problem that every geopark must face.
Of course, the exploration of these geoparks doesn’t end there. With the rise of new scientific research and environmental protection concepts, the future development of geoparks will be a complex integrating the interests of multiple parties. In the end, what enlightenment will such balance and coexistence bring to mankind?
