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The 10^th session of the International Geoscience Programme (IGCP) Council marked a milestone in UNESCO and the International Union of Geological Sciences (IUGS)'s advancement of global geoscience initiatives for sustainable development, cutting edge research, and capacity building around the world. 

During the 10th session, the Council conducted a comprehensive review of 33 active IGCP projects, highlighting their scientific achievements and contributions to capacity building. The UNESCO Secretariat also introduced two new proposals to strengthen global geoscience efforts. The Council allocated $300,000 in funding from IUGS, UNESCO, and the National Commission of the Republic of China—the highest allocation in a decade.

One highlight was an exceptional decision from the Council to extend the funding of IGCP Project 740 for an additional year to ensure its successful completion. This project, which addresses critical tsunami hazard assessments in the Makran region, underscores IGCP’s commitment to addressing urgent geoscience challenges that have significant societal and environmental implications.

Looking ahead, the Council reaffirmed its dedication to supporting geoscience research in Africa, launching a new call for IGCP projects to strengthen geoscience on the continent. This initiative aims to provide more opportunities for African geoscientists to contribute to global research efforts while also addressing region-specific geoscience challenges. IGCP will allocate up to $150,000 for projects, further expanding support for innovative geoscience initiatives.

Two new initiatives proposed by the UNESCO Secretariat, and approved by the Council, will further enhance IGCP’s global impact. The first initiative focuses on supporting UNESCO Global Geoparks and strengthening collaboration between them, based on a survey answered by 79 different sites around the world. Survey responses identified additional support for capacity building, research, and cross-border cooperation among their most sought-after areas for development, and these will be targeted through this project. The second initiative will strengthen ties with the International Continental Scientific Drilling Program (ICDP), an organization that supports ‘deep drilling’ projects that collect one-of-a-kind rock samples from kilometers underground. Leveraging UNESCO’s network of field offices around the world, this reinforced partnership will increase the impact and local engagement for these cutting-edge projects being carried out around the world. These collaborations are expected to drive new research opportunities and enhance scientific knowledge sharing on a global scale.

With continued commitment from UNESCO, IUGS and the international geoscience community, IGCP remains a cornerstone of Earth science innovation, knowledge-sharing and sustainable development. As geoscience continues to play a vital role in addressing global challenges such as climate change, natural hazards and resource sustainability, IGCP’s initiatives will be crucial in shaping a resilient and informed future.