In April 2026, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization(UNESCO) designated 12 new Global Geoparks, bringing the total to 241 sites across 51 countries, covering over 882,000 square kilometres(Sq km).
- The newly added sites span across China, France, Greece, Ireland, Japan, Malaysia, Portugal, Russia, Tunisia(first-ever), and Uruguay.
About UNESCO Global Geoparks:
Establishment: Created as an official UNESCO label in 2015, these sites use a “bottom-up” approach involving local stakeholders.
Purpose: The designation aims to protect geological heritage while promoting environmental education, sustainable development, and local community empowerment.
Duration: The status is granted for four years. To maintain the title, sites undergo a revalidation process.
New Geoparks Added (2026): Changshan (China), Mt. Siguniang (China), Terres d’Hérault (France), Nisyros (Greece), Joyce Country and Western Lakes (Ireland), Mine-Akiyoshidai Karst Plateau (Japan), Lenggong (Malaysia), Sarawak Delta (Malaysia), Algarvensis (Portugal), Toratau (Russia), Dahar (Tunisia), and Manantiales Serranos (Uruguay).
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