UNESCO Global Geoparks Network

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About UNESCO Global Geoparks Network

These are single, unified geographical areas where sites and landscapes of international geological significance are managed with a holistic concept of protection, education and sustainable development.
These comprise a number of geological heritage sites of special scientific importance, rarity or beauty.
The UNESCO Global Geopark designation was created in 2015, and recognizes “geological heritage of international significance”.
The establishment of a UNESCO Global Geopark is a bottom-up process involving a strong local multiple partnership with long-term public and political support.
It is not a formal legislative designation, though the defining geological heritage sites within a UNESCO Global Geopark must be protected under indigenous, local, regional or national legislation as appropriate.
This status does not imply restrictions on any economic activity inside a UNESCO Global Geopark where that activity complies with indigenous, local, regional and/or national legislation.
Recognition Period: A UNESCO Global Geopark is given this designation for a period of four years after which the functioning of the site re-examined during a revalidation process.
Restrictions: The selling or destruction of the geological value of a UNESCO Global Geopark or of material either from within the Geopark or from anywhere else in the world is not permitted.

Global Geoparks Network

It is a non-profit International Association officially established in 2014 subject to French legislation.
It is the official partner of UNESCO for the operation of the UNESCO Global Geoparks.

Q1: What is UNESCO?

It is the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. It is a specialized agency of the United Nations (UN). It seeks to build peace through international cooperation in Education, the Sciences and Culture.

Source: UNESCO names 18 new Geoparks