UNESCO has designated 16 new sites as Global Geoparks, recognising their geological heritage of international importance and their role in promoting sustainable tourism, education and local development. The new additions bring the total number of Global Geoparks to 229, now spread across 50 countries.
The announcement was made on 17 April, following the official endorsement by UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay. “UNESCO Global Geoparks are a symbol of our rich geological diversity and a reflection of humanity’s bond with the Earth,” Azoulay said. “They are essential to protecting natural heritage while fostering sustainable economic development.”
Geographical diversity and first-time entrants
This year’s newly recognised sites span four continents and include, for the first time, locations in Saudi Arabia and the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea. The move underscores UNESCO’s commitment to expanding the geopark initiative to underrepresented regions.
Asia and the Middle East
- Kanbula, China: Situated on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, this park is known for its red Danxia landforms and alpine forests. It also hosts important Tibetan Buddhist sites.
- Yunyang, China: Located in the Three Gorges Reservoir area, Yunyang is a hotspot for dinosaur fossils and displays key geological events from the Triassic and Jurassic periods.
- Danyang, Republic of Korea: Combines karst landscapes with cultural sites and traditional Korean architecture. Gyeongbuk Donghaean, Republic of Korea: Encompasses volcanic features, coastal cliffs and rich marine biodiversity along South Korea’s eastern shore.
- Mount Paektu, Democratic People’s Republic of Korea: A volcanic mountain with a crater lake, Mt Paektu holds deep cultural and spiritual significance and features unique alpine ecosystems.
- North Riyadh, Saudi Arabia: This site showcases limestone plateaus and ancient rock art, offering insights into prehistoric life and desert geology.
- Salma, Saudi Arabia: Characterised by rugged mountains and varied desert landscapes, Salma presents a diverse geological record of tectonic activity.
- Lang Son, Viet Nam: A northern border province featuring karst formations, caves and a rich mix of ethnic cultures.
Latin America
- Napo Sumaco, Ecuador: Located in the Amazon basin, the park integrates volcanic features with high biodiversity and Kichwa indigenous heritage.
- Tungurahua Volcano, Ecuador: This active volcano and its surroundings are focal points for geotourism and education on volcanic hazards.
Southeast Asia
- Kebumen, Indonesia: Known for fossil-rich limestone and marine biodiversity, this coastal area is an important site for geological and biological studies.
- Meratus, Indonesia: In South Kalimantan, this geopark is home to ancient rocks and the Dayak Meratus indigenous community.
Europe
- Murge, Italy: A karst plateau in southern Italy, Murge is dotted with caves and sinkholes and has archaeological evidence of early human habitation.
- The Fjord Coast, Norway: Marked by deep fjords and steep cliffs, this site illustrates the effects of glaciation and post-glacial rebound in Scandinavia.
- Costa Quebrada, Spain: Located in Cantabria, Costa Quebrada features striking coastal cliffs and fossil-bearing rock layers.
- Arran, United Kingdom: The Scottish island of Arran is known for its exceptionally diverse rock formations, offering a geological timeline that spans over two billion years.
A platform for education and sustainable tourism
UNESCO Global Geoparks aim to protect geological heritage while promoting community engagement and sustainable economic activity. Each site joins a global network that supports environmental education, scientific research, and cultural exchange.
“UNESCO Global Geoparks are not just about geology,” Azoulay stated. “They support local communities, nurture education and act as catalysts for responsible tourism. Through them, we create awareness and resilience in the face of climate change.”
The new sites will also benefit from UNESCO’s broader strategy to expand geopark representation in Africa, the Arab States, and small island developing states. Tailored support, including training sessions and expert visits, is being offered to build capacity in those regions.
This latest expansion of the Global Geoparks network signals growing recognition of the role these landscapes play in understanding the planet’s past and addressing environmental challenges of the present. From active volcanoes and fossil beds to ancient rock formations and cultural landscapes, geoparks serve as valuable tools for conservation and sustainable development.
