Draft version: 24 September 2010
Global Network of
National Geoparks GGN
Frequently Asked
Questions
around
the Global Geoparks
What do you want to know before
submitting a dossier to become
member of the GGN- Global
Geoparks Network?
1. What are the ultimate preconditions before having the idea to ‘make’ a
Geopark?
Being interested to become a Geopark and an adhering member to the GGN is a voluntary
participation in the Global Network of National Geoparks. In applying for membership, the
applicant must respect the terms of the GGN guidelines. An independent expert group will refer to
these guidelines when assessing proposals for the Global Network.
Before submitting a dossier, the aspiring Geopark candidate must already be in place and
functioning as a de facto Geopark.
It is equally important for applying areas to have been already in contact with the GGN and its
global members and experts, the Secretariat, possible during some of the international
conferences and workshops, being already familiar with the philosophy of the Geoparks concept.
2. What actually is a Geopark?
A Geopark is an area with…. particular geological heritage of international significance and a
sustainable development strategy involving local communities. A Geopark comprises a number of
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geological heritage sites of special scientific importance, rarity or beauty. These features are
representative of a region’s geological history and the events and processes that formed it.
The important geological features within the Geopark area must be accessible to visitors, linked
to one another scientifically, thematically, and educationally, and formally protected and managed
through a comprehensive plan. A Geopark partnership between different types of managed lands
within a Geopark (federal, state, or private) must recognize and adhere to each unique
management plan for individual sites, but must also have a common strategic management plan
for the entire Geopark partnership with established goals.
A Geopark is not…. an area of outstanding geological heritage alone, a small single site of
geological interest, a fenced off area just for scientists, it is not a geological theme park, nor an
area with no local community involvement, or no sustainable economic development strategy.
Very important but frequently asked: Geopark is not a category of protected area.
3. Has a Geopark a minimum or a maximum size required?
A Geopark must have a sufficiently large surface area to develop a sustainable development
strategy. It must have a clear boundary and it must be managed by a clearly defined
management structure. It is obvious that huge areas like the Alaxa Geopark in China (68,374 km2)
can be considered as very big, and are by nature are very difficult to manage and must make a
huge effort to demonstrate a coherent image to visitors who may just visit a small part of it.
Other parks that have intermediate manageable sizes are:
Hexigten 1,750 km (China)
ToyaUzu 1,180 km2 (Japan)
Hateg 1,023 km2 (Rumania)
Gea Norvegica 3,010 km2 (Norway)
Rocca di Cerere 1,279 km2 (Italy)
Qinling 1,074 (China)
Shetland 1468 (UK)
English Riviera Geopark (first urban Geopark) 62 km2 of land, 41 km2 sea area (UK)
4. What are the aims of a Geopark?
A Geopark fosters socio-economic development that is culturally and environmentally sustainable
directly impacting on the area by improving human living conditions and the rural environment. A
Geopark acts as a quality statement for the region. It gives local people a sense of pride for their
region, strengthens public identification with the area, while promoting a better understanding of
the area’s geological heritage and its importance in history and society today. The Geopark
partnership serves as a catalyst for technical assistance with the challenges of living with a
region’s geologic environment and landscape, for example in a karst region, a seismically active
area, or near an active volcano.
The aim of a Geopark is to bring enhanced employment opportunities for the people who live
there. These opportunities are being created in association with the conservation of the
geological heritage of the Geopark. The establishment of a Geopark stimulates the creation of
innovative local enterprises, small business, cottage industries, high quality training courses and
new jobs by generating new sources of revenue (e.g. geotourism, geoproducts) while protecting
the geo-resources of the Geopark (e.g. encouraging casting instead of sale of fossils). This
provides supplementary income for the local population and attracts private capital.
'Geotourism' is an economic, success-oriented and fast-moving discipline, a new tourist business
sector involving strong multidisciplinary cooperation. Sustainable tourism and other economic
activities within a Geopark area are very important and must be carried out in communication with
the Geopark management. Tourism activities adhere to individual site management plans and
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authority and respect the cultural character of the area. In many regions, it is necessary to involve
the indigenous community in the establishment of a Geopark area and partnership.
A primary aim of a Geopark is to promote geoscience education within local communities and to
visitors by conveying the importance of the Geopark’s geological heritage to students, teachers,
local decision-makers, and the public, as well as visitors to the region. New scientific
understanding developed through research should be an integral component of the Geopark’s
education and outreach programs. A Geopark provides education and outreach activities to
communicate geoscience and environmental concepts through a variety of methods (such as
museums, interpretive/education centers, trails, guided tours, publications, maps, student
curricula, public presentations and lectures, and interactive, frequently updated websites).
5. What are typical activities within a Geopark?
A Geopark is an area ‘alive’. It uses its geological heritage as its primary promotional tool but also
promotes other aspects of its natural, cultural and historical heritage. A Geopark is a territory with
well-defined limits that has a large enough surface area for it to serve sustainable local economic
development mainly through tourism. Typical activities in a Geopark include the development of
walking and cycling trails, the training of local people to act as guides, education courses and
guided tours, provision of information, interpretation and research activities, signage and the
development of modern museums and visitor centers. Stimulating activities in the population
related to the geological theme and the creation of local agricultural and traditional craft products.
Preparing informational material on geology and nature as a whole, printing leaflets and other
material, maintaining websites. Some geoparks work a lot with culture and bring in the link
between culture and geology.
6. Who is in charge of and how to manage a Geopark?
The establishment of a Geopark area is a bottom-up process in a country and is based on a
strong local multiple partnership with long-term public and political support. The initiative to
develop this partnership must therefore come from sites with a strong commitment to developing
a partnership plan that meets the goals of local communities while showcasing and protecting an
area’s geological heritage. This includes that the different partners adhere to the common work
and principles of the Geoparks concept. For European Geoparks the partners involved must
accept the EGN Charter which states the main principles.
Geopark activities and all different individual geological sites within the Geoparks boundary area
are publicized through one partnership, which promotes and manages activities as a whole, not in
fragmented individual parts in order to guarantee one corporate identity of the Geopark. The
designated Geopark area must be clearly visible through consistent signage for visitors.
A Geopark is an opportunity to develop cohesive partnerships with common goals between land
owners, managers, businesses, tourism interests, and other local organizations to promote an
area representing significant geological processes, features, periods of time, a unified landscape,
historical themes linked to geology, or the outstanding geological beauty of an area – together as
a partnership and team effort.
7. Who can become a Geopark partner?
Multiple partners are possible from inside and also outside the geopark area. The Geopark
develops multiple partnerships in many different fields with many different groups in the area
stakeholders and local enterprises who become Geopark partners as well as with local and
national authorities, community leaders, private interests, Geological Surveys, research and
educational institutions, and tourism bodies.
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8. How will the partners be committed?
Through different forms MOU, agreements, contracts, etc. defining cooperation and details of
cooperation and also use of the different logos.
10. What means community involvement and empowerment in a Geopark?
“Community empowerment” in the GGN context refers to actions and programs which support
local communities’ capacity with the overall objective to achieve that local communities become
Geopark beneficiaries and that the traditions, skills, experiences and knowledge of local
communities about their environment and their landscape become part of the Geopark’s concept
and are clearly recognized in information for visitors and in Geopark publications and public
programs (e.g. guided walks).
Examples are:
 Comprehensive information of local communities in a Geopark’s territory about the
Geopark, the related philosophy, the intended objectives and the options for local
communities to participate in the development of the Geopark
 Assessment of local capacities and needs: Intensive dialogue between Geopark
management and local communities on how local strengths and values (= skills,
traditions, products, knowledge…) could be integrated into the overall development of the
Geopark and how local communities could get opportunities to create benefits from
Geopark development
 Provision of tailored training for local communities, e.g. for tour guides, marketing local
products, developing new products, provide services in the Geopark (e.g.
accommodation or food, transport)
 Allocate tasks to local communities, e.g. in the context of maintenance of Geopark
infrastructure or operation of Geopark facilities (information points)
 Work together with local institutions, associations and with schools in order to develop
and to operate Geopark programs in the area of education, besides scientists use local
expertise for education programs
11. How long does it take and cost to create a Geopark?
To create a Geopark ‘from scratch’ takes several years including the building up of local and
national contacts, management and infra-structure, a financial and business structure, etc.. It will
take a couple of years to reach the point from which on an application can be written. It must not
be neglected that the preparation phase is considerably important. It includes among others the
writing of a business and financial plan (including fundraising), studies of the area for geological
heritage values, geotourism and outreach activities, the establishment of infrastructure (museums,
roads, site management). However, the time and financial effort can be considerably reduced
when a Geopark is build upon already existing structures.
If a region needs to develop the entire necessary infrastructure and management plan of a
Geopark from nothing then the budget can possibly run into several million dollars.
12. How long will it take and cost to prepare an application dossier?
Below are just examples taken from Geoparks, the costs will vary depending on local conditions
and the organizational structure hosting the Geopark. This also depends on the physical size of
the territory, geological diversity, the availability of information, the number of projects which are
operated and staff available.
It is difficult to define a concrete time limit. If all the different phases of preparation are done and
the Geopark has actually begun to function, it takes a minimum of 3 -5 months to prepare an
application dossier. If an external institution is commissioned to prepare an application, it may
cost tenth of thousands of dollars. But if already a structure exists and the Geopark will be
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integrated it may cost staff time and some additional money to prepare maps, DVD´s or other PR
material, outreach activities, training guides, etc..
As an example from Europe, the cost of preparing the application of the Marble Arch Caves
Global Geopark (Northern Ireland) needed not be very high provided the region already had the
necessary geotourism infrastructure and management structures to meet the qualifying criteria for
geoparks. If all that is already in place then the actual preparation of an application might take
between 3 - 6 months for one or two people who are suitably qualified and experienced (scientific
AND economic / tourism / development). New photography, mapping and print costs are likely to
be around €15,000 (18,000USD). This can be reduced if the application is provided as an on-line
link, which is environmentally more sustainable and which is encouraged by the GGN.
13. What about legislation in a Geopark?
A Geopark is also not a formal legislative designation. A Geopark under the Global Geoparks
Network is not a new category of protected area or landscape. A Geopark area is not a new form
of land ownership or federal or state designation of public land. A Geopark therefore can be quite
different to what is in some countries mostly an entirely protected as regulated National Park or
Nature Park, which may be defined under the environmental law in a country.
Sites that maintain public access and have an existing strong partnership among neighboring
land owners and managers, or the potential to build a strong partnership, would qualify.
Concurrence of all property owners is required through signatures in the planning process. The
designation of the land area as a Geopark does not affect the legal status of a property. Only the
individual countries laws remain applicable to ownership and management of the site(s). The sole
role of UNESCO is oversight of the global program criteria and quality standards. UNESCO has
no legal rights over local, state, federal or private ownership or management of a Geopark area
and there is also no international convention bound to the Geoparks (as would be for example for
the UNESCO World Heritage designation for which a convention was adopted by member
states).
Local, state, or federal management authorities ensure appropriate site protection measures
within individual site management plans, in cooperation with the appropriate agencies, to
guarantee effective conservation and protection and provide necessary monitoring and
maintenance of the proposed area. Sites remain under the sole jurisdiction of the landowners and
managers, whether private, or local, state, tribal, or federal agencies. UNESCO does not have
any type of management authority over the Geopark area.
14. Does the geoparks Network provide training courses?
The European geoparks Network organizes annually an Intensive Course on Geoparks which
focuses on geoconservation, geopark management and operation, geotourism development,
educational activities and local development. For the moment the Lesvos Petrified Forest
Geopark is hosting this course. This Intensive course is also open to individuals from nonmember organizations with a PhD or Masters degree in science.
The GGN co-organizes meetings and workshops in Member States all around the world in
connection to national and international geoparks conferences, with the aim to help interested
regions to adopt the Geoparks concept and facilitate the of the planning and business plan
preparation of aspiring areas and finally help to draft applications.
15. What is the difference between a geopark and a natural park?
A Geoparks is not a new category of protected area or a nature park but very often a Geopark
corresponds to or overlaps with a protected area (nature park, nature reserve, etc). While a
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protected area (according to the new official definition approved by IUCN in 2008 at the last
World Conservation Congress in Barcelona) is “a clearly defined geographical space, recognized,
dedicated and managed, through legal or other effective means, to achieve the long-term
conservation of nature with associated ecosystem services and cultural values” a Geopark
ensures the protection of the geological heritage of its territory in accordance with local traditions
and legislative obligations, but it doesn’t add special restrictions or measures of protection.
16. What is the added value of a Geopark?
This may be not so much the visitor numbers but more an enhanced value of the area (geology
and the history of the landscape is interesting and can create national identity!), dissemination of
geological knowledge, high quality educational and pedagogic work. The Geopark is often part of
a tourism concept for an area and therefore a tourism instrument.
The Geopark supports and increases local development and employment.
Benefits to be part of an active network which members have the same interest, profit mutually
from common promotion, common projects (which can attract international funds), common
activities, exchange of experience. There is an increase of awareness, promotion of the area
(international/ national/local, political, press). The fact belonging to a network under UNESCO,
belonging to the UN-family is certainly interesting for certain regions. A high level international
visibility and promotion can attract investments by national and local public and private bodies.
17. Is a Geopark Network member also a ‘UNESCO Geopark’?
UNESCO has been invited "to support ad hoc efforts with Member States as appropriate" to
promote territories or natural parks having special geological features (Executive Board in June
200, 161 EX/Decisions, 3.3.1). National Geopark initiatives, which seek UNESCO's assistance
should integrate the preservation of significant examples of geological heritage in a strategy for
regional sustainable socio-economic and cultural development, safeguarding the environment.
There is no ‘UNESCO Geopark’ designation at present. This needs the support and decision of
the General Conference of UNESCO and the agreement of all member states of UNESCO who
have decision making power. However, the members of the Global Geoparks Network are
members of the Global Network of National Geoparks assisted by UNESCO (GGN), the
Geoparks being an activity under UNESCO’s workplan.
The inclusion into the Global Network is a sign of recognition of excellence and in no ways
implies any legal or financial responsibilities on the part of UNESCO. This relates also to the use
of UNESCO’s name and logo (temple logo), which needs a special authorization on individual
request respecting the regulatory framework of the Organization. Therefore the GGN propose to
use the GGN logo we have created especially for the Global Network.
18. What is the role of UNESCO?
The Geoparks activity is part of UNESCO’s workplan. UNESCO serves as the global umbrella
partner that organizes and coordinates the Global Geopark conferences, oversees application
procedures and standards, produces publications and marketing, and unifies the program
internationally. UNESCO provides a platform of active cooperation between experts and
practitioners in geological heritage. Under the umbrella of UNESCO, and through exchange
between the global network partners, important national geological sites gain worldwide
recognition and profit through the exchange of knowledge, expertise, experience and staff with
other Geoparks.
UNESCO has a standard-setting role and provides policy advice under high quality standards.
UNESCO provides visibilityy and global attention for the Network members and represents with
its strict quality control a label of excellence.
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UNESCO provides a geoparks Secretariat, contributes to and stimulates global ‘networking’, coorganizes the International Geoparks Conferences (2004 Beijing - China, 2006 Belfast - Ireland,
2008 Osnabrueck-Germany, 2010 Langkawi – Malaysia, 2012 Shimambara City – Japan),.
UNESCO maintains a website and organizes evaluation and revalidation missions. UNESCO
participates fully in the work of the Network and has a right-of-veto concerning all decisions made
by the Network.
19. What kind of organisation is the Global Geoparks Network?
Global Network of National Geoparks is a voluntary, co-operative organisation. It has a clearly
defined internal structure comprised of a GGN Bureau and experts group and Secretariat.
20. What is the main aim of the network?
The main aim of the Network is to support its members to bring sustainable territorial
development to the geopark by using that territory’s geological heritage, primarily through the
development of geotourism. It is our aspiration that geotourism can be developed in this way and
that our Network members become a high quality brand of geotourism and sustainable
development. The Network is responsible for the assessment of its members’ operation and
services in order to promote the “GGN” label as a high quality brand in geotourism
geoconservation and local sustainable development.
Geopark management bodies are responsible for the establishment of a management and action
plan which should describe its members operation and activities and should refer to the following
issues: Earth heritage sites identification and assessment, natural and cultural heritage elements
validation, geosite protection and geoconservation, scientific researches, Earth heritage
interpretation infrastructure and activities, geotourism infrastructure and activities, environmental
education activities and tools, promotional activities, support of local business, monitoring
progress, international relationships.
21. How can a geopark use the logo?
There is the GGN logo as well as the European Geoparks Logo which can be used by the
European geoparks. We encourage to use the logo(s) on all Geopark related publications and
products.
22. What is the best moment to submit an application?
Applications can only be submitted when a Geopark is already de facto functioning. This means
the application must be preceded by a successful planning and putting into practice phase. The
Geopark must already be functioning at the moment the application is submitted. Submission
period 1 October to 1 December every year. (more details under point 26).
23. How can I apply for membership in the GGN?
The GGN guidelines are available on the UNESCO website, and refers to all criteria that are
considered essential to prepare the dossier. http://portal.unesco.org/science/en/ev.phpURL_ID=6400&URL_DO=DO_TOPIC&URL_SECTION=201.html
The Geopark application dossier must be well written in English or French. National Geoparks
seeking UNESCO’s assistance are invited to contact first their national governmental bodies
responsible for Earth heritage and nature protection, tourism economy, and the UNESCO
National Commissions keeping them informed about the intention to build a Geopark and become
member of the Network. With a view to ensure that Member States are fully informed on the
application, i.e. the request to UNESCO for ad hoc support in the field of Geoparks, the National
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Commissions for UNESCO and the relevant appropriate governmental authorities in each
Member State concerned need to be properly informed already in the preparation phase.
24. Which is the size and form of the Application dossier?
The application should be written in English or French and submitted electronically and in 1
printed copy (soft cover). Further, in order to facilitate distribution of the application file among the
desk-top evaluators, a link should be provided to download the application dossier by internet.
Format:
Application dossier max. 50 pages
Appendix 1: self evaluation
Appendix 2: copy and paste the geological section of the application, prefaced by geological
summary of about 150 words
The application dossier must precisely follow the format and topics below, highlighting strong and
weak points:
A – Identification of the Area
1. Name of the proposed geopark
2. Surface area, physical and human geography characteristics of the proposed geopark
3. Organization in charge and management structure (description, function and organigram) of
the proposed geopark
4. Application contact person (name, position, tel./fax, e-mail)
B – Geological Heritage
1. Location of the proposed geopark (please include a map and geo-reference coordinates)
2. General geological description of the proposed geopark
3. Listing and description of geological sites within the proposed geopark
4. Details on the interest of these sites in terms of their international, national, regional or local
value (for example scientific, educational, aesthetic)
C - Geoconservation
1. Current or potential pressure on the proposed geopark
2. Current status in terms of protection of geological sites within the proposed geopark
3. Data on the management and maintenance of these sites
4. Listing and description of non-geological sites and how they are integrated into the proposed
geopark
D - Economic Activity & Business Plan (including detailed financial information)
1. Economic activity in the proposed geopark
2. Existing and planned facilities for the proposed geopark (e.g. geo-education, geo-tourism,
tourism infrastructure etc)
3. Analysis of geotourism potential of the proposed geopark
4. Overview and policies for the sustainable development of:
- geo-tourism and economy
- geo-education
- geo-heritage
Please include examples illustrating activities in these sectors
5. Policies for, and examples of, community empowerment in the proposed geopark
6. Policies for, and examples of, public and stakeholder awareness in the proposed geopark.
E – Interest and arguments for joining the Global Network of National Geoparks
Annex 1: Self evaluation document
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Annex 2: Please make an additional submission of Section B (Geological Heritage) along
with a summary of the geological interest which must not exceed 150 words (this will be
used only for the geological desktop evaluators from IUGS – International Union of
Geological Sciences)
The full application must not exceed 50 pages (including all photographs, maps, figures
and diagrams) and the electronic version must not exceed a file size of 10MB.
25. Where shall the dossier be sent to?
All regions (except for Europe):
Global Earth Observation Section
Division of Ecological and Earth Sciences
UNESCO
1, rue Miollis
75723 Paris Cedex 15
France
Tel : 33 (0)1 45 68 41 18
Fax : 33 (0)1 45 68 58 22
Email : m.patzak@unesco.org ; ml.faber@unesco.org; s.laryea@unesco.org
For European regions:
Applications coming from European regions sill be evaluated in cooperation with the European
Geoparks Network. Taking into account common goals for geological heritage activities,
educating the public on the environment, and promoting regional sustainable development,
namely through Geoparks, UNESCO has established close ties of cooperation with the European
Geoparks Network (EGN). This co-operation is very fruitful through the numerous common
meetings and expert missions and is of considerable value in raising public awareness of
environmental matters and stimulating geotourism world-wide on a high standard of excellency. In
order to apply the European model high quality standards in a wider context, UNESCO has
decided to integrate national Geoparks in Europe through the EGN into the Global Network.
UNESCO and the EGN have signed two agreements regarding the integration of a European
territory in the global network: the “AGREEMENT FOR COOPERATION BETWEEN THE
DIVISION OF ERATH SCIENCES OF UNESCO AND THE NETWORK OF EUROPEAN
GEOPARKS” signed by both parties, 23 April 2001, Almeria, Spain and the “Madonie
Declaration”; signed 2004 in Madonie (Sicily). Following these agreement, the European
Geoparks Network acts as the integration organization for the Global Network for the European
continent and, consequently, any application of a Geopark in Europe which is sent to UNESCO
will be dealt with the EGN mechanism.
A European territory wishing to become a member of the Global Network of Geoparks, is invited
to submit a full application dossier through the Earth Observation Section of UNESCO to the
European Geoparks Network. Geoparks, which have been accepted by the European network,
are, after consultation with the group of independent experts, included in the Global Network.
European candidates can obtain more information through Mrs Sylvie Giraud (see address below)
at the EGN Secretariat:
Mrs Sylvies Giraud
Réserve Géologique de Haute Provence
BP 156
04500 Digne les Bains Cedex
France
Tel : 00 33 4 92 36 70 72
Fax : 00 33 4 62 36 70 71
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Email : sy.Giraud@free.fr
Or s.giraud@resgeol04.org
26. When should and application be submitted and what is the evaluation
procedure?
Annual submission: 1 October - 1 December 2009 each year
Field evaluation missions: starting 1 May
Decisions on applications: during the following GGN Bureau meeting in autumn
Applications will be checked that all the information required is included and that the guidelines
have been adhered to, and reviewed by January 31. Requests for further clarification, if
necessary, will be issued to nominating territories by end of February at the latest. Desktop
evaluations of the application will take place and the GGN will seek a statement from the IUGS
(International Union of Geological Sciences) on the international value of the geological heritage
of the applicant territory.
Evaluation missions will be carried out between May 1 – July 31 each year. It is the responsibility
of the applicant territory to pay the travel, subsistence and accommodation expenses of two
experts.
Evaluation reports will be circulated to GGN Bureau members by August 31. Evaluation missions
will be discussed and decisions made at the autumn Bureau meeting of the GGN.
Should any application be deferred at the autumn meeting, it can only be considered fully again at
the subsequent autumn meeting one year later.
27. Is How much costs the evaluation?
Invitation of 2 experts paid by the territory.
28. Is there a limited number of Geopark within any one country?
No.
But in terms of the number of applying Geopark projects the number is limited. In order to
guarantee a balanced geographical representation of countries the number of active Geopark
applications is restricted to two per country. Three Geopark applications can be permitted for
countries, which apply for the first time and are not yet participating in the Network.
29. How much does it cost to run a Geopark?
Isn’t this a question for the aspiring geopark? As a EGN/GGN geopark it might be too late to
consider this after participation in the network? This is really a difficult question. And it is difficult
to place a lot of the following issues in this section or the former. All the things about economy
should be important to aspiring geoparks.
The costs for the maintenance of a Geopark depend very much on the territory and the individual
case, size, structure of Geopark and are therefore very different in each park. Geopark activities,
geo-education etc. can be integrated in existing staff and infra-structure. In developed countries
for example a minimum needed would be 2-4 Million Euros for a completely new Geopark but the
long-term investment is open-ended. In developing and emerging countries the sum may be less
but a minimum of regular financial basis is needed in order to keep the activities running. A
certain will to regularly invest must back up each intention to make a Geopark.
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This basic investment serves to create work and sustainable development. It helps to support
jobs in local contracting firms, other tourism facilities and in public sector organizations. All of
these people work and live in the Geopark region and spend most of their money there so a lot of
money remains in the region. (Economists call this the multiplier effect, which means that money
earned by local people circulates in a region rather than leaving it.)
Concrete examples in numbers:
Reserve Geologique Digne, France (active since 25 years), 230 km2 area, today works with 1220 staff and has about 1 million Euro (1,200,000 USD) budget (most of the big investment costs
are already in place since the inception like the most costly installations infrastructure, e.g.
museum, outdoor visitor centres).
North Pennines Geopark, UK started 4 years ago with one manager responsible for the AONB
(area of natural outstanding beauty) with 50.000 Euros (600,000 USD), next year 2.4 Million
Euros (3,000,000 USD)are available.
Vulkaneifel Geopark, Germany being a tourism instrument has invested during the last 20 years
about 12 million Euros (15,000,000 USD) on infrastructure and projects to which also local
communities contributed. The Geopark itself does not produce income but is a service-provider
for the local communities (who finance the Geopark 90.000 Euros (110,000 USD)+ individual
donations for projects, total about 100.000-200.000 Euros (1,200,000-2,400,000 USD) annually,
not counting staff costs.
Bergstrasse-Odenwald Geopark, Germany: During the three years of planning phase the park
invested about 500,000 Euros (600,000 USD) per year. This included the development of a huge
regional network, Geopark infrastructure, hiking and Geo-adventure trails, a wide range of
projects with regional partners, ranger training, educational programmes, PR, production of free
information material, publication of hiking books and maps, staff costs, maintenance costs.
Marble Arch Caves Global Geopark, Northern Ireland: Fermanagh District Council's annual
operational budget for the geopark is approximately €430,000 (530,000 USD, including staff and
maintenance, projects, 25 full time employees).
30. What if a national geoparks network exists in a country?
If in any country a formal "National Network for Geoparks" exists, then the applicant must first
become a certified member of that national network before submitting its dossier for membership
to the Global Network of National Geoparks. Comments made by the nationally competent body
during a successful application procedure at the national level could form valuable appendices to
the dossier.
The GGN is supported by the regional Networks which represent the activities and the Geoparks
in different regions of the world and which contribute to the formation of the GGN.
Besides the European Geoparks Network and the Asia Pacific Geoparks Network, Latin America
and the Carribic as well as Africa are starting to prepare similar structures, which will be
represented under the GGN.
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What do you want to know after you
became member of the Global
Geoparks Network?
32. Is the period of membership of the network a limited?
Membership of the Global Geoparks Network is limited to a period of four years for all members.
After that, membership is re-evaluated. A list of re-evaluation criteria is available, though it is
crucial that geoparks participate as active members of the Network to ensure continuing
membership. If, following the revalidation exercise it is found that the geopark under
consideration is operating fully and strongly as a member of the GGN, it will be awarded a “green
card” and its membership of the GGN will be renewed for a further four year period. If, however,
some problem has been identified, the GGN Bureau decide to award that territory a “yellow card’
and its membership of the GGN will be renewed for a two year period. Following the two year
period a further revalidation exercise will be carried out which can either result in a “green card” if
everything is found to be satisfactory again, or a “red card” should the original problem remain
unresolved. In the latter instance, the territory will loose its membership of the GGN.
33. Is How much costs the revalidation?
Invitation of 2 experts paid by the territory.
If it is also a question about evaluation, it should also be in the first section.
34. What needs to be done to prepare a revalidation?
The following documents need to be provided before the revalidation takes place:
1) The Progress evaluation form
This form is similar to the self-evaluation form but shows the development and progress.
2) Progress report made by the Geopark (free format)
In order to send the document easily by e-mail, it must be smaller than 5MB (downsize pictures!)
or must be accessible though ftp servers. This report must highlight special progress,
advancements and success stories of the Geopark.
35. Does the membership cost anything?
There is no subscription fee for Network members. Members however, incur costs by attending
meetings and actively working within the Network. As part of the application preparation any
potential new member may wish to invite an advisor from the Network to their territory and the
costs of such a visit should be borne by the inviting territory. The nominating territory also has to
cover the cost of travelling and accommodation for the two experts who are going to carry out the
evaluation mission in the territory which follows the written application.
36. What are the annual costs involved in being a member of the Network?
The cost of Geopark members travelling to and accommodation during the annual meetings. The
participation at the International Geoparks Conference organized by UNESCO every two years is
quasi obligatory, as well as participation in the regional Network meetings (Europe, Asia Pacific).
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For the European Geoparks Network each member has also to cover an annual promotional fee
(€1000) for the publication and distribution cost of the EGN magazine and other EGN promotional
activities. Each member will receive 200 copies of the magazine.
Each member Geopark must also cover the cost of travelling and accommodation for the two
experts who will carry out the revalidation mission of the territory every four years (or two years in
the case of yellow card).
37. Are there any restrictions or legislation attached to being a member of
the Global Geoparks Network?
No. The Geopark member of the GGN has no legal status and does not imply any level of
protection or restriction within a Geopark’s territory. Such measures can only ensue from national
legislation. However, the ethics of the Geoparks concept foresees that no selling or destruction of
the geological value or of material from inside or outside the Geopark is permitted (details see
point 41).
38. What is the role of adhering to a network?
The aim of the GGN is to provide a platform of cooperation and exchange between experts and
practitioners in geological heritage matters under the umbrella of UNESCO. The network shall
comprise all regions of the world and shall bring together groups that share a common values,
interests or backgrounds. The international Network of National Geopark shall serve to develop
models of best practice and set standards for territories that integrate the preservation of
geological heritage in a strategy for regional sustainable economic development.
Geoparks that are part of the Network shall:
1) preserve geological heritage for future generations(conservation)
2) educate and teach the broad public about issues in geological science and
environmental matters ( education)
3) ensure sustainable socio-economic development (tourism, geotourism)
The impact on the area will be immediate, by improving human living conditions and the rural
environment, strengthening identification of the population with their area and triggering cultural
renaissance. Respectful of the environment; Geoparks stimulate, for example, the creation of
innovative local enterprises, small business, cottage industries and new jobs, generate new
sources of revenue. This provides supplementary income for the local population and shall attract
private capital.
39. Can I construct in my Geopark?
Yes of course. Sustainable development human and social activity are essential parts of a
geopark. “Geoparks are not just about rocks-they are about people. It is crucial that they get involved-we
want to see as many people as possible getting out and enjoying the geology of the area. Our aim is to
maximise geotourism (...) for the benefit of the local economy and to help people to understand the
evolution of their local landscape." (Chris Woodley-Stewart, Geopark Manager, North Pennines AONB,
United Kingdom).
However, every activity has to be sustainable and compatible with the conservation of the local
geological heritage.
40. Is the collection of original geological material (e.g. rocks, minerals,
fossils) permitted within a Geopark?
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Yes, the collecting of original geological material is permitted within a geopark provided that is
done in a sustainable manner or for scientific/educational purposes and that it is carried out
under scientific supervision and in accordance with local legislation.
A Geopark area must respect all country local, state, and federal laws, especially those related to
the protection of geological heritage and artifacts. Management officials must not participate in
the direct sale of geological objects* within the Geopark area (regardless of origin), and should
actively discourage unsustainable sale or trade in geological material as a whole, including selling
of minerals and fossils. However, appropriate collecting of geological materials for scientific or
educational purposes may be permitted within the Geopark if the management plan allows for
such in a controlled manner.
41. Is the selling of any original geological material (e.g. rocks, minerals,
fossils) permitted within a Geopark?
No, the selling or destruction of the geological value of a geopark or of material either from within
the geopark or from anywhere else in the world is not permitted. The Geopark managing body
must not participate directly in the sale of geological objects* within the Geopark (no matter from
where they are) and should actively discourage unsustainable trade in geological materials as a
whole, including shortsighted selling of Earth heritage, minerals and fossils. This does not refer to
quarried or mined material for industrial or domestic use that is quarried or mined under national
legislation.
Where clearly justified as a responsible activity and as part of delivering the most effective and
sustainable means of site management, it may permit sustainable collecting of geological
materials for scientific and educational purposes from naturally renewable sites within the
Geopark. Trade of geological materials (in accordance with national legislation on Earth heritage
conservation) based on such a system may be tolerated in exceptional circumstances, provided it
is clearly and publicly explained, justified and monitored as the best option for the Geopark in
relation to local circumstances. Such circumstances will be subject to debate and approval by the
GGN on a case-by-case basis. Selling of polished building rock material, artwork made out of
building stone would be permitted.
*Geological objects refer to specimens of rock, minerals and fossils of a type that are commonly
sold in so-called “rock-shops.” It does not refer to material for normal industrial and household
use which is sourced by quarrying and/or mining and which will be subject to regulation under
national and/or international legislation.
42. What duties are linked of being a member?
It is important to participate in the activities of the network. Like attend meetings,contribute to
common publications, keeping the network updated about the geoparks activities and events.
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How did it all get started?
Geopark and geological heritage activities started by enthusiastic individuals outside UNESCO
and was under discussion since the 1990ieas. The meeting in Digne, France and issue of the
International Declaration of the rights of the memory of the Earth (1991), the Task Force was
established at the 2nd Conference on Geological and Landscape Conservation held in Malvern,
United Kingdom in July 1993.
Also the geological heritage discussion during the International Geological Congresses
contributed (1996, Beijing, PR China, 2000 Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, 2004 Florence, Italy.
The European Geoparks Network was established in June 2000 by four territories. In 2001 the
European Geoparks Network signed a formal agreement with the Division of Earth Sciences
UNESCO and endorsed the network. A further agreement was signed with UNESCO in 2004
whereby the EGN was given responsibility for regulating membership of the UNESCO Global
Network of Geoparks in Europe.
2) Geoparks and its relations to World Heritage
The Geoparks are mentioned in the WH global theme study:
GEOLOGICAL WORLD HERITAGE: A GLOBAL FRAMEWORK - A Contribution to the
Global Theme Study of World Heritage Natural Sites
(Prepared by Paul Dingwall, Tony Weighell and Tim Badman, Protected Area Programme, IUCN,
September 2005)
This report discusses role of the World Heritage Convention in recognizing and protecting
geological and geomorphological heritage, and presents proposals based on a global
consultation.
In 2004, UNESCO – through the IGCP – adopted the Geopark idea and ran it globally as the
GGN.
The Geoparks were officially proposed for the first time in 1999 as a UNESCO Programme (156
EX 11 Rev.) following the model of the Man and the Biosphere Programme. The former Director
of the Division of Earth Sciences, Mr Wolfgang Eder used the MAB guidelines as line of
orientation. Several delegates during the discussions in UNESCO’s Executive Board referred to
the proposal to launch a UNESCO Geoparks Programme either in a supportive or critical manner,
it was therefore concluded to examine the question further on the basis of a feasibility study
involving IGCP, MAB and the World Heritage Centre. This feasibility study, prepared by an
external expert in geological heritage conservation, was presented at the 160th EX Bd session
and concluded that hosting Geoparks as an activity within the World Network of Biosphere
Reserves of the MAB Programme would offer the most appropriate mechanism for strengthening
geological heritage conservation in UNESCO’s programmes. The MAB Council which discussed
this proposal subsequently decided against the inclusion of a Geoparks Programme as part of the
World Network of Biosphere Reserves.
This was presented in 2001 to the 161st session of UNESCO’s Executive Board where the
majority of Delegates supported the idea to ‘support ad hoc efforts within individual Member
States as appropriate’, as their countries would benefit from UNESCO’s provision of support to
and operation with national geological heritage initiatives. This lead to the Decision (161
EX/Decisions 3.3.1) on which basis we are currently operating:
“...Invites the Director-General not to pursue the development of a UNESCO
geosites/geoparks programme, but instead to support ad hoc efforts with
Member States as appropriate.”
(complete text please see below)
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In summary, the launching of a Geoparks Programme as proposed by the former Director
SC/GEO did not work as the relation to the MAB concept was too close and the UNESCO
Member States did not wish proliferation of new programmes, due to lack of substantial funding
for additional initiatives. National geopark initiatives were just on the point of emerging but not
known much at that stage, and almost no lobbying was undertaken by SC/GEO within UNESCO
and at Member States’ level.
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