Celebrating a Decade of Global Geoparks

An Anniversary to Remember

On March 5, 2025, the International Geoscience and Geoparks Programme (IGGP), a collaborative initiative spearheaded by UNESCO, celebrated its 10th anniversary. This milestone highlights a decade of fostering global awareness of Earth’s geological heritage, advancing sustainable development, and empowering local communities through geotourism and conservation. The IGGP has become a cornerstone in the global effort to preserve the planet’s geological diversity while promoting education and sustainable practices.

10 Years of Geoscience and Geoparks

The IGGP was established to build bridges between scientific research and local communities, ensuring the sustainable use of geological resources while conserving Earth’s rich geodiversity. Since its inception in 2015, the programme has worked to foster partnerships between geoscientists, local governments, and communities, promoting the concept of geoparks. These geoparks are areas of geological significance that not only conserve and protect the Earth’s natural heritage but also educate the public and stimulate local economies through geotourism.

Key Achievements

Expansion of Geopark Sites: In the past 10 years, the number of UNESCO Global Geoparks has significantly increased. The IGGP has supported the development and recognition of over 100 new geoparks globally. These parks not only preserve geological features but also encourage eco-friendly tourism and contribute to the local economy.

• Education and Awareness: One of the key achievements of the IGGP is the promotion of Earth science education. Through various outreach programs, the initiative has successfully raised awareness about the importance of geology and the preservation of natural sites. The IGGP has fostered a deeper understanding of how the Earth’s processes shape our landscapes and how human activities impact the environment.

• Supporting Sustainable Development: By integrating geological heritage with sustainable development goals, the IGGP has played an essential role in advancing the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Many geoparks have become models for sustainable tourism, helping communities create job opportunities while preserving their cultural and natural heritage.

• Collaboration and Networking: The IGGP has also facilitated the creation of a robust network of scientific and local communities dedicated to protecting Earth’s geological treasures. This network has supported collaboration on research, conservation, and development projects across borders.

Looking to the Future

As the IGGP celebrates its 10th anniversary, it reflects on its past successes and looks forward to the next decade of growth and innovation. With the increasing pressures of climate change and environmental degradation, the IGGP will continue to serve as an important tool in raising awareness about the need for sustainable practices in preserving the planet’s geological heritage.

In the coming years, the IGGP should aim to:

• Increase Global Engagement: Expanding the IGGP’s reach to more countries and regions, particularly those where geosites are underrepresented.

• Promote Climate Action: Use geoparks as platforms for promoting awareness and action on climate change, showing how geological sites can provide valuable insights into both past and future climate conditions.

• Enhance Community Involvement: Strengthen local community involvement, ensuring that they continue to benefit economically and culturally from geoparks while playing an active role in their preservation.

A photo of the Jeju UNESCO Global Geopark

Conclusion

The 10th anniversary of the International Geoscience and Geoparks Programme marks a significant milestone in the global effort to protect Earth’s geological heritage. With its focus on education, sustainable development, and community engagement, the IGGP has become an essential part of the worldwide push toward a more sustainable future. As we move into the next decade, the programme’s continued growth will be critical to ensuring that future generations can continue to learn from and enjoy the geological wonders of our planet.