UNESCO names 12 new Global Geoparks

PRESS RELEASE   UNESCO names 12 new Global Geoparks   Paris, 23 April 2026 – Today UNESCO designated 12 new geoparks, bringing the total number of sites in the UNESCO Global Geopark Network to 241 in 51 countries. The network now covers an area of over 882,000 km2, equivalent to the size of Venezuela.   Media Corner: descriptions, photos and videos of the 12 new geoparks   The 12 newly designated geoparks are located in China, France, Greece, Ireland, Japan, Malaysia, Portugal, the Russian Federation, Tunisia – marking its first geopark – and Uruguay.   "Every rock formation, every canyon and every fossil tells a story that belongs to all humanity. In just ten years, UNESCO Global Geoparks have shown that protecting geological heritage also means advancing science, strengthening education and building local resilience. What unites its 241 sites across 51 countries is not just geological significance, but a shared commitment to pass on knowledge, with local communities at the centre," said Khaled El-Enany, Director-General of UNESCO.   The UNESCO Global Geoparks designation, created in 2015, brings together territories recognized for their rich geological heritage. These rock formations, mountain or volcanic ranges, caves, canyons, fossil sites or ancient desert landscapes each bear witness to our planet’s history, evolution and climate. The sites combine conservation, environmental education and a sustainable approach to development, while also supporting Indigenous Peoples and local communities in promoting their culture and know-how.   Each year, new sites are added to the network by decision of UNESCO’s Executive Board, after an evaluation of the applications by the Global Geoparks Council made up of international experts.   UNESCO continues to promote the programme in areas where geoparks are less common, notably in Africa, the Arab States and Small Island Developing States. UNESCO does this by facilitating expert missions, tailored training sessions and individual consultations on both a national and local scale, to guide the preparation of applications for UNESCO Global Geopark status.   The new UNESCO Global Geoparks are:   China: Changshan UNESCO Global Geopark  China: Mt. Siguniang UNESCO Global Geopark France: Terres d’Hérault UNESCO Global Geopark  Greece: Nisyros UNESCO Global Geopark  Ireland: Joyce Country and Western Lakes Global Geopark  Japan: Miné-Akiyoshidai Karst Plateau UNESCO Global Geopark  Malaysia: Lenggong UNESCO Global Geopark  Malaysia: Sarawak Delta UNESCO Global Geopark  Portugal: Algarvensis UNESCO Global Geopark  Russian Federation: Toratau UNESCO Global Geopark  Tunisia: Dahar UNESCO Global Geopark  Uruguay: Manantiales Serranos UNESCO Global Geopark    About UNESCO   With 194 Member States, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization contributes to peace and security by leading multilateral cooperation on education, science, culture, communication and information. Headquartered in Paris, UNESCO has offices in 54 countries and employs over 2300 people. UNESCO oversees more than 2000 World Heritage sites, Biosphere Reserves and Global Geoparks; networks of Creative, Learning, Inclusive and Sustainable Cities; and over 13 000 associated schools, university chairs, training and research institutions, with a global network of 200 National Commissions. Its Director-General is Khaled El-Enany.   “Since wars begin in the minds of men, it is in the minds of men that the defenses of peace must be constructed” – UNESCO Constitution, 1945.   More information: www.unesco.org   Press contact François WIBAUX, f.wibaux@unesco.org, +33 (0) 1 45 68 07 46   UNESCO Newsroom All our press releases   Social media

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