UNESCO Global Geoparks

UNESCO Global Geoparks aim to protect geological heritage and realize sustainable development in connection with local communities. They are geographical areas where geological value is linked to education, tourism and economic activities, fostering coexistence of nature and humans.

Global Geoparks preserve Earth’s 4.6-billion-year story while enabling the growth of people, economies and cultures.

For further information on UNESCO Global Geoparks →

Significance

• Protection of geological heritage

  Protecting and studying internationally valuable geological sites

  Sustainable development

  Vitalizing local economies through geo-tourism

  Cooperation with communities

  Establishing a conservation and operating model with engagement from local communities

  Environmental education and research

  Serving as a hub for adapting to climate change and research on natural disasters

• UNESCO Global Geoparks not only support the preservation of nature’s value but also enable local communities to utilize and develop nature in a sustainable manner.

Designation Criteria

• In order to become a UNESCO Global Geopark, the area must have geological heritage of international value, and be appropriately equipped with systems for sustainable development and education, participation of local communities and legal protections.

  1

  Geological heritage of international value

  • - Must be single, unified geographic areas where sites and landscapes of international geological significance with a holistic concept of protection, education and sustainable development

  2

  Connection with natural/cultural heritage

  • - Must enhance awareness and understanding of key issues such as sustainable use of earth’s resources, mitigating the effects of climate change and reducing natural hazard-related risks in connection with the area’s natural and cultural heritage

  3

  Effective management system

  • - Must be managed by a body that is legally recognized under national legislation and have a comprehensive management system and policies governing the entire area of the park

  4

  Harmonization with other UNESCO reserves

  • - Must prove its additional value as a global geopark, if overlapping with World Heritage or Biosphere Reserve

  5

  Participation of local communities and stakeholders

  • - Must facilitate the active participation of all stakeholders, including local authorities and tourism businesses, in area management and operation

  6

  International cooperation and networking

  • - Must participate in the Global Geoparks Network (GGN) and enhance international cooperation through experience sharing and implementation of joint projects

  7

  Legal protection and sustainable operation

  • - Key geological heritage within geoparks must be legally protected to prevent indiscriminate trade in fossils or minerals, allowing only limited extraction for research or educational purposes.

  8

  Regular evaluation and review

  • - Areas designated as UNESCO Global Geoparks must undergo periodic evaluation and review to ensure continued compliance with designated criteria.
  • - Revalidation every four years (corrective actions required within two years if criteria are unmet)

  Operational Guidelines for UNESCO Global Geoparks → For further information on Operational Guidelines
  for UNESCO Global Geoparks →

UNESCO Global Geoparks around the World

• As of 2024, there are 213 UNESCO Global Geoparks in 48 countries worldwide. These geoparks protect areas of geological significance while promoting education and sustainable development in harmony with local communities.

  Go to the list of UNESCO Global Geoparks →

Relevant Websites

• - Korea

  • Jeju Island UNESCO Global Geopark

    

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  • Cheongsong UNESCO Global Geopark

    

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  • Hantangang River UNESCO Global Geopark

    

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  • Jeonbuk West Coast UNESCO Global Geopark

    

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• -Overseas

  • Global Geoparks Network (GGN)

    

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  • Asia Pacific Geoparks Network (APGN)

    

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  • UNESCO Global Geoparks

    

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