Introducing the UNESCO Global Geopark Network

Organization
Canadian Land Reclamation Association (CLRA)
Project
National CLRA Conference Papers
Resource Type
Report
Authors
Graham Gambles
Resource Date:
2016
Page Length
9

There are four basic features that are fundamental for the development of a Geopark.
These standards must be met and confirmed by representatives of the country that
nominates a specific park to the Global Geopark Network.

  • GEOLOGICAL HERITAGE of international value, based on peer-reviewed, published research on the areas geological sites, must be proven to exist.
  • MANAGEMENT by a body having legal existence that is recognized under national legislation must exist. It will be represented by all relevant local and regional authorities and principal private partners. The organization must develop a comprehensive management plan to protect the landscape and conserve cultural identity.
  • VISIBILITY to visitors, as well as the local population must exist, in order to promote sustainable local economic development, primarily through Geotourism and Agritourism. It is important to establish a corporate identity.
  • NETWORKING, both on the National and International scale is obligatory in order to be a member of the UNESCO Global Geopark Network (GGN). By working together across borders, the GGN contributes to increasing understanding among different communities and enhances peace-building processes.

Criteria satisfaction is evaluated during biennial meetings of the International
Conference on Geoparks, which also is in charge of undertaking periodic reviews.