In April 2025, UNESCO Global Geoparks Council (UGGp), United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) added 16 new sites across 11 countries to its Global Geoparks Network (GGN).
- The UNESCO Global Geoparks Network, announced the list during its 10th anniversary.
- North Korea recorded its historic first with the inclusion of its site, Mt Paektu, Saudi Arabia has made its debut with North Riyadh and Salma.
- India does not have featured site in the list.
i.With the new entries, the Geopark network consists of 229 sites across 50 countries. The Network now comprises 229 sites across 50 countries, collectively spanning nearly 855,000 square kilometers
ii.UNESCO Geoparks are the model for the conservation of Heritage. They also support educational projects, promote sustainable tourism.
iii.To maintain the quality of UNESCO Global Geoparks, each site undergoes a thorough revalidation process every four years. As a result, a green card indicates the renewal status for four years while a yellow card denotes the renewal to a period of two years.
- Of the 39 revalidations, the council granted 33 green cards and 6 yellow cards.
Sixteen newly added Geoparks:
| Serial no | Countries | Site Names |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | China | Kanbula |
| 2 | China | Yunyang |
| 3 | Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (North Korea) | Mt Paektu |
| 4 | Ecuador | Napo Sumaco |
| 5 | Ecuador | Tungurahua Volcano |
| 6 | Indonesia | Kebumen |
| 7 | Indonesia | Meratus |
| 8 | Italy | Mur Geopark |
| 9 | Norway | The Fjord Coast |
| 10 | Republic of Korea (South Korea) | Danyang |
| 11 | Republic of Korea (South Korea) | Gyeongbuk Donghaean |
| 12 | Saudi Arabia | North Riyadh |
| 13 | Saudi Arabia | Salma |
| 14 | Spain | Costa Quebrada |
| 15 | United Kingdom of England and Northern Ireland | Arran |
| 16 | Vietnam | Lang Son |
About UNESCO Global Geoparks (UGGp):
UNESCO Global Geoparks are single, unified geographical areas that are recognized for their geological, natural and cultural heritage, integrating protection, education and sustainable development.
- It is established through a bottom-up process involving all local and regional stakeholders and authorities in the area.
About UNESCO Global Geoparks Council:
The council consists of 12 ordinary members who have voting rights. They are appointed by the Director- General of UNESCO based on recommendations from the GGN and member states. Additionally, the council includes 4 ex-officio members who do not vote.
About United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO):
Director-General – Audrey Azoulay
Headquarters – Paris, France
Establishment – 16 November 1945
