International Network of Geoparks - Definition and Overview

The International Network of Geoparks (INoG) is a UNESCO Geoparks programme established in 1998. According to UNESCO, for a Geopark to qualify in the INoG it needs to have:

• A management plan designed to foster socio-economic development that is sustainable (most likely to be based on geotourism).

• Demonstrate methods for conserving and enhancing geological heritage and provide means for teaching geoscientific disciplines and broader environmental issues.

• Joint-porposals submitted by public authorities, local communities and private interests acting together, which demonstrate the best practices with respect to Earth heritage conservation and its integration into sustainable development strategies.

UNESCO currently lists 28 Geoparks in the INoG, and it is hoped that over 500 Geoparks will eventually attain INoG status.

Participants

• Asia (*)
  • PRoC (8)
    • Lushan GeoPark
    • Wudalianchi
    • Mount Songshan
    • Mount Yuntaishan
    • Mount Danxiashan
    • Shilin (Stone Forest)
    • Zhangjiajie
    • Mount Huangshan