During the 10th Anniversary of UNESCO Global Geoparks (UGGPs), 16 new sites across 11 countries were added to the GGN.
- GGN is a non-profit International Association founded under UNESCO.
- It establishes ethical standards that must be adopted by Global Geoparks.
Major Geoparks added to GGN
- Kanbula (China): Located on the edge of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, it features the ancient Maixiu volcanoes, which are exceptionally well-preserved, and the Yellow River.
- Mt Paektu (North Korea): It was the location of one of the largest eruptions in recorded history (Millennium Eruption around 1000 CE).
- North Riyadh (Saudi Arabia): Obaitharan Valley (Wadi Obaitharan), located at the base of Tuwaiq Mountain, is a lush reserve that supports the region’s water supply.
- Valley is also home to ancient coral reef systems.
UNESCO Global Geoparks (UGGP)
- Genesis: Introduced in 2015 as a key component of the International Geosciences and Geoparks Programme (IGGP).
- Geoparks: UGGPS are single, unified geographical areas where landscapes of international geological significance are managed with a holistic concept of
- protection,
- education and
- sustainable development.
- Management: Managed by a body having a legal existence recognised under national legislation.
- Reassessment Period: UGGP status is not permanent; it is reassessed every four years.
- Mandatory Networking: Membership of the GGN is obligatory for UGGPs.
- Current Status: There are 229 UNESCO Global Geoparks in 50 countries (none in India).