What is a Geopark?

Central to the definition of a Geopark is its regional identity, as defined by its unique geological history, its cultural heritage, its present-day culture and the natural landscape of the region. The story of this regional identity is brought to life by local residents, businesses, organisations and educational authorities, all working together to give it a well defined shape. And interestingly, when people know more about their local history, they tend to adopt a more sustainable approach to their own environment. The ultimate aim of a Geopark is to use the regional identity as a source of inspiration for the future, by translating it into sustainable economic regional development. Strengthening tourism is an important starting point for that process.

Geopark: identity, story and future

• Regional identity is central to a Geopark. This is defined by its geological and cultural history, the present-day culture and the natural landscape.
• Local residents, businesses, institutions and education work together to bring the story of the Geopark to life. The more people know about their own region, the more care they take about the sustainability of their surroundings.
• The Geopark uses the identity of the region as a source of inspiration for the future. It will strengthen the tourist sector as a part of a wider sustainable economic development plan.
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