Event
10th anniversary of the International Geoscience and Geoparks Programme
Registration
Open session from 2-5.30pm in Room 2, followed by a cocktail on the 7th floor.
About
Ten years ago, UNESCO Member States ratified the creation of a unique designation—UNESCO Global Geoparks—recognizing territories of exceptional geological significance. Geoparks are first and foremost described as living laboratories in the sense that they showcase some of Earth’s most phenomenal geological processes happening in real time, as well as to recognize the unique role that local people, cultures and communities play at the heart of these sites.
The unique UNESCO Global Geopark designation is paired with the International Geoscience Programme, which has brought together thousands of Earth scientists since its inception in 1972. Through these two complementary branches, UNESCO supports pioneering research in Earth sciences while promoting a unique Earth heritage preservation model for sustainable development.
Anniversary programme
UNESCO is delighted to celebrate this important anniversary through a full programme, including interactive discussions between Member State representatives, UNESCO Global Geoparks, and programme partners, concluding with a celebratory cocktail reception with products from the European UNESCO Global Geoparks.
Keep checking this page for updates on the event details as they are developed in collaboration with our partners, and find out how you can be involved.
This event is held back-to-back with the 51st meeting of the European Geoparks Network, who will meet for the occasion at UNESCO’s headquarters, an event graciously sponsored by the French National Commission.
Contact: Iggp@unesco.org
Agenda
| Time | Event |
|---|---|
| 14.00 | Opening address by UNESCO Director General |
| 14.05 | Welcome statement statutory partners: Global Geoparks Network (GGN) and International Union of Geological Sciences (IUGS) |
| 14.15 | Welcome statement: French National Commission President |
| 14.20 | Presentation of the results of the International Geoscience Programme + announcement of the new UNESCO Global Geopark candidates |
| 14.40 | European Geoparks Network Keynote Address, European Geoparks Network Coordinator: "Shaping tomorrow: UNESCO Global Geoparks for Peace and Sustainability" |
| 15.00 | Panel 1 Geodiversity for sustainable development Concept: Representatives from four continents: the importance of recognising and protecting geodiversity; local economic development successes and ambitions; mining; shaping our landscape; and Questions |
| 15.40 | Coffee break |
| 16.10 | Panel 2 Local to global: The impact of UNESCO Global Geoparks Concept: Representatives from four continents – each showcasing a “story” to illustrate different geopark themes – community, tourism, education, gender and inclusivity – mention books + Questions |
| 16.50 | Panel 3 Growing UNESCO Global Geoparks Concept: Representatives from four continents: examples illustrating the impact of UNESCO Global Geopark governance, networking, collaboration; catalysing the growth of UNESCO Global Geoparks worldwide; and Questions |
| 17.30 | Closing |
| 17.30 – 20.00 | IGGP 10th anniversary reception (7th floor) Opening speeches: Ms Lidia Arthur Brito, Assistant Director-General for Science, UNESCO; Permanent Delegation of the French Republic to UNESCO. Displays of local products from Geoparks |
What is a UNESCO Global Geopark?
UNESCO Global Geoparks are single, unified geographical areas where sites and landscapes of international geological significance are managed under a holistic concept that integrates protection, education and sustainable development. These geoparks adopt a bottom-up approach, combining conservation efforts with sustainable development, informal education and the active involvement of local communities. At present, there are 213 UNESCO Global Geoparks in 48 countries.
