Draft version: 24 September 2010

Global Network of National Geoparks - GGNFrequently Asked Questions around the Global Geoparks

What do you want to know before submitting a dossier to become member of the GGN- Global Geoparks Network?

1. What are the ultimate preconditions before having the idea to ‘make’ a Geopark?Being interested to become a Geopark and an adhering member to the GGN is a voluntary participation in the Global Network of National Geoparks. In applying for membership, the applicant must respect the terms of the GGN guidelines. An independent expert group will refer to these guidelines when assessing proposals for the Global Network.

Before submitting a dossier, the aspiring Geopark candidate must already be in place and functioning as a de facto Geopark.

It is equally important for applying areas to have been already in contact with the GGN and its global members and experts, the Secretariat, possible during some of the international conferences and workshops, being already familiar with the philosophy of the Geoparks concept.

1

2. What actually is a Geopark?A Geopark is an area with…. particular geological heritage of international significance and a sustainable development strategy involving local communities. A Geopark comprises a number of geological heritage sites of special scientific importance, rarity or beauty. These features are representative of a region’s geological history and the events and processes that formed it.

The important geological features within the Geopark area must be accessible to visitors, linked to one another scientifically, thematically, and educationally, and formally protected and managed through a comprehensive plan. A Geopark partnership between different types of managed lands within a Geopark (federal, state, or private) must recognize and adhere to each unique management plan for individual sites, but must also have a common strategic management plan for the entire Geopark partnership with established goals.

A Geopark is not…. an area of outstanding geological heritage alone, a small single site of geological interest, a fenced off area just for scientists, it is not a geological theme park, nor an area with no local community involvement, or no sustainable economic development strategy. Very important but frequently asked: Geopark is not a category of protected area.

3. Has a Geopark a minimum or a maximum size required?A Geopark must have a sufficiently large surface area to develop a sustainable development strategy. It must have a clear boundary and it must be managed by a clearly defined management structure. It is obvious that huge areas like the Alaxa Geopark in China (68,374 km2) can be considered as very big, and are by nature are very difficult to manage and must make a huge effort to demonstrate a coherent image to visitors who may just visit a small part of it. Other parks that have intermediate manageable sizes are:Hexigten 1,750 km (China)ToyaUzu 1,180 km2 (Japan)Hateg 1,023 km2 (Rumania)Gea Norvegica 3,010 km2 (Norway)Rocca di Cerere 1,279 km2 (Italy)Qinling 1,074 (China)Shetland 1468 (UK)English Riviera Geopark (first urban Geopark) 62 km2 of land, 41 km2 sea area (UK)

4. What are the aims of a Geopark?A Geopark fosters socio-economic development that is culturally and environmentally sustainable directly impacting on the area by improving human living conditions and the rural environment. A Geopark acts as a quality statement for the region. It gives local people a sense of pride for their region, strengthens public identification with the area, while promoting a better understanding of the area’s geological heritage and its importance in history and society today. The Geopark partnership serves as a catalyst for technical assistance with the challenges of living with a region’s geologic environment and landscape, for example in a karst region, a seismically active area, or near an active volcano.

The aim of a Geopark is to bring enhanced employment opportunities for the people who live there. These opportunities are being created in association with the conservation of the geological heritage of the Geopark. The establishment of a Geopark stimulates the creation of innovative local enterprises, small business, cottage industries, high quality training courses and new jobs by generating new sources of revenue (e.g. geotourism, geoproducts) while protecting the geo-resources of the Geopark (e.g. encouraging casting instead of sale of fossils). This provides supplementary income for the local population and attracts private capital.

2

'Geotourism' is an economic, success-oriented and fast-moving discipline, a new tourist business sector involving strong multidisciplinary cooperation. Sustainable tourism and other economic activities within a Geopark area are very important and must be carried out in communication with the Geopark management. Tourism activities adhere to individual site management plans and authority and respect the cultural character of the area. In many regions, it is necessary to involve the indigenous community in the establishment of a Geopark area and partnership.

A primary aim of a Geopark is to promote geoscience education within local communities and to visitors by conveying the importance of the Geopark’s geological heritage to students, teachers, local decision-makers, and the public, as well as visitors to the region. New scientific understanding developed through research should be an integral component of the Geopark’s education and outreach programs. A Geopark provides education and outreach activities to communicate geoscience and environmental concepts through a variety of methods (such as museums, interpretive/education centers, trails, guided tours, publications, maps, student curricula, public presentations and lectures, and interactive, frequently updated websites).

5. What are typical activities within a Geopark?A Geopark is an area ‘alive’. It uses its geological heritage as its primary promotional tool but also promotes other aspects of its natural, cultural and historical heritage. A Geopark is a territory with well-defined limits that has a large enough surface area for it to serve sustainable local economic development mainly through tourism. Typical activities in a Geopark include the development of walking and cycling trails, the training of local people to act as guides, education courses and guided tours, provision of information, interpretation and research activities, signage and the development of modern museums and visitor centers. Stimulating activities in the population related to the geological theme and the creation of local agricultural and traditional craft products. Preparing informational material on geology and nature as a whole, printing leaflets and other material, maintaining websites. Some geoparks work a lot with culture and bring in the link between culture and geology.

6. Who is in charge of and how to manage a Geopark?The establishment of a Geopark area is a bottom-up process in a country and is based on a strong local multiple partnership with long-term public and political support. The initiative to develop this partnership must therefore come from sites with a strong commitment to developing a partnership plan that meets the goals of local communities while showcasing and protecting an area’s geological heritage. This includes that the different partners adhere to the common work and principles of the Geoparks concept. For European Geoparks the partners involved must accept the EGN Charter which states the main principles.

Geopark activities and all different individual geological sites within the Geoparks boundary area are publicized through one partnership, which promotes and manages activities as a whole, not in fragmented individual parts in order to guarantee one corporate identity of the Geopark. The designated Geopark area must be clearly visible through consistent signage for visitors.

A Geopark is an opportunity to develop cohesive partnerships with common goals between land owners, managers, businesses, tourism interests, and other local organizations to promote an area representing significant geological processes, features, periods of time, a unified landscape, historical themes linked to geology, or the outstanding geological beauty of an area – together as a partnership and team effort.

7. Who can become a Geopark partner?Multiple partners are possible from inside and also outside the geopark area. The Geopark develops multiple partnerships in many different fields with many different groups in the area

3

stakeholders and local enterprises who become Geopark partners as well as with local and national authorities, community leaders, private interests, Geological Surveys, research and educational institutions, and tourism bodies.

8. How will the partners be committed?Through different forms MOU, agreements, contracts, etc. defining cooperation and details of cooperation and also use of the different logos.

10. What means community involvement and empowerment in a Geopark? “Community empowerment” in the GGN context refers to actions and programs which support local communities’ capacity with the overall objective to achieve that local communities become Geopark beneficiaries and that the traditions, skills, experiences and knowledge of local communities about their environment and their landscape become part of the Geopark’s concept and are clearly recognized in information for visitors and in Geopark publications and public programs (e.g. guided walks). Examples are:

Comprehensive information of local communities in a Geopark’s territory about the Geopark, the related philosophy, the intended objectives and the options for local communities to participate in the development of the Geopark

Assessment of local capacities and needs: Intensive dialogue between Geopark management and local communities on how local strengths and values (= skills, traditions, products, knowledge…) could be integrated into the overall development of the Geopark and how local communities could get opportunities to create benefits from Geopark development

Provision of tailored training for local communities, e.g. for tour guides, marketing local products, developing new products, provide services in the Geopark (e.g. accommodation or food, transport)

Allocate tasks to local communities, e.g. in the context of maintenance of Geopark infrastructure or operation of Geopark facilities (information points)

Work together with local institutions, associations and with schools in order to develop and to operate Geopark programs in the area of education, besides scientists use local expertise for education programs

11. How long does it take and cost to create a Geopark?To create a Geopark ‘from scratch’ takes several years including the building up of local and national contacts, management and infra-structure, a financial and business structure, etc.. It will take a couple of years to reach the point from which on an application can be written. It must not be neglected that the preparation phase is considerably important. It includes among others the writing of a business and financial plan (including fundraising), studies of the area for geological heritage values, geotourism and outreach activities, the establishment of infrastructure (museums, roads, site management). However, the time and financial effort can be considerably reduced when a Geopark is build upon already existing structures. If a region needs to develop the entire necessary infrastructure and management plan of a Geopark from nothing then the budget can possibly run into several million dollars.

12. How long will it take and cost to prepare an application dossier?Below are just examples taken from Geoparks, the costs will vary depending on local conditions and the organizational structure hosting the Geopark. This also depends on the physical size of the territory, geological diversity, the availability of information, the number of projects which are operated and staff available.

4

It is difficult to define a concrete time limit. If all the different phases of preparation are done and the Geopark has actually begun to function, it takes a minimum of 3 -5 months to prepare an application dossier. If an external institution is commissioned to prepare an application, it may cost tenth of thousands of dollars. But if already a structure exists and the Geopark will be integrated it may cost staff time and some additional money to prepare maps, DVD´s or other PR material, outreach activities, training guides, etc..

As an example from Europe, the cost of preparing the application of the Marble Arch Caves Global Geopark (Northern Ireland) needed not be very high provided the region already had the necessary geotourism infrastructure and management structures to meet the qualifying criteria for geoparks. If all that is already in place then the actual preparation of an application might take between 3 - 6 months for one or two people who are suitably qualified and experienced (scientific AND economic / tourism / development). New photography, mapping and print costs are likely to be around €15,000 (18,000USD). This can be reduced if the application is provided as an on-line link, which is environmentally more sustainable and which is encouraged by the GGN.

13. What about legislation in a Geopark?A Geopark is also not a formal legislative designation. A Geopark under the Global Geoparks Network is not a new category of protected area or landscape. A Geopark area is not a new form of land ownership or federal or state designation of public land. A Geopark therefore can be quite different to what is in some countries mostly an entirely protected as regulated National Park or Nature Park, which may be defined under the environmental law in a country.

Sites that maintain public access and have an existing strong partnership among neighboring land owners and managers, or the potential to build a strong partnership, would qualify. Concurrence of all property owners is required through signatures in the planning process. The designation of the land area as a Geopark does not affect the legal status of a property. Only the individual countries laws remain applicable to ownership and management of the site(s). The sole role of UNESCO is oversight of the global program criteria and quality standards. UNESCO has no legal rights over local, state, federal or private ownership or management of a Geopark area and there is also no international convention bound to the Geoparks (as would be for example for the UNESCO World Heritage designation for which a convention was adopted by member states).

Local, state, or federal management authorities ensure appropriate site protection measures within individual site management plans, in cooperation with the appropriate agencies, to guarantee effective conservation and protection and provide necessary monitoring and maintenance of the proposed area. Sites remain under the sole jurisdiction of the landowners and managers, whether private, or local, state, tribal, or federal agencies. UNESCO does not have any type of management authority over the Geopark area.

14. Does the geoparks Network provide training courses?The European geoparks Network organizes annually an Intensive Course on Geoparks which focuses on geoconservation, geopark management and operation, geotourism development, educational activities and local development. For the moment the Lesvos Petrified Forest Geopark is hosting this course. This Intensive course is also open to individuals from non-member organizations with a PhD or Masters degree in science.

The GGN co-organizes meetings and workshops in Member States all around the world in connection to national and international geoparks conferences, with the aim to help interested regions to adopt the Geoparks concept and facilitate the of the planning and business plan preparation of aspiring areas and finally help to draft applications.

5

15. What is the difference between a geopark and a natural park?A Geoparks is not a new category of protected area or a nature park but very often a Geopark corresponds to or overlaps with a protected area (nature park, nature reserve, etc). While a protected area (according to the new official definition approved by IUCN in 2008 at the last World Conservation Congress in Barcelona) is “a clearly defined geographical space, recognized, dedicated and managed, through legal or other effective means, to achieve the long-term conservation of nature with associated ecosystem services and cultural values” a Geopark ensures the protection of the geological heritage of its territory in accordance with local traditions and legislative obligations, but it doesn’t add special restrictions or measures of protection.

16. What is the added value of a Geopark?This may be not so much the visitor numbers but more an enhanced value of the area (geology and the history of the landscape is interesting and can create national identity!), dissemination of geological knowledge, high quality educational and pedagogic work. The Geopark is often part of a tourism concept for an area and therefore a tourism instrument.The Geopark supports and increases local development and employment.Benefits to be part of an active network which members have the same interest, profit mutually from common promotion, common projects (which can attract international funds), common activities, exchange of experience. There is an increase of awareness, promotion of the area (international/ national/local, political, press). The fact belonging to a network under UNESCO, belonging to the UN-family is certainly interesting for certain regions. A high level international visibility and promotion can attract investments by national and local public and private bodies.

17. Is a Geopark Network member also a ‘UNESCO Geopark’?UNESCO has been invited "to support ad hoc efforts with Member States as appropriate" to promote territories or natural parks having special geological features (Executive Board in June 200, 161 EX/Decisions, 3.3.1). National Geopark initiatives, which seek UNESCO's assistance should integrate the preservation of significant examples of geological heritage in a strategy for regional sustainable socio-economic and cultural development, safeguarding the environment.

There is no ‘UNESCO Geopark’ designation at present. This needs the support and decision of the General Conference of UNESCO and the agreement of all member states of UNESCO who have decision making power. However, the members of the Global Geoparks Network are members of the Global Network of National Geoparks assisted by UNESCO (GGN), the Geoparks being an activity under UNESCO’s workplan.

The inclusion into the Global Network is a sign of recognition of excellence and in no ways implies any legal or financial responsibilities on the part of UNESCO. This relates also to the use of UNESCO’s name and logo (temple logo), which needs a special authorization on individual request respecting the regulatory framework of the Organization. Therefore the GGN propose to use the GGN logo we have created especially for the Global Network.

18. What is the role of UNESCO?The Geoparks activity is part of UNESCO’s workplan. UNESCO serves as the global umbrella partner that organizes and coordinates the Global Geopark conferences, oversees application procedures and standards, produces publications and marketing, and unifies the program internationally. UNESCO provides a platform of active cooperation between experts and practitioners in geological heritage. Under the umbrella of UNESCO, and through exchange between the global network partners, important national geological sites gain worldwide recognition and profit through the exchange of knowledge, expertise, experience and staff with other Geoparks.

6

UNESCO has a standard-setting role and provides policy advice under high quality standards. UNESCO provides visibilityy and global attention for the Network members and represents with its strict quality control a label of excellence.

UNESCO provides a geoparks Secretariat, contributes to and stimulates global ‘networking’, co-organizes the International Geoparks Conferences (2004 Beijing - China, 2006 Belfast - Ireland, 2008 Osnabrueck-Germany, 2010 Langkawi – Malaysia, 2012 Shimambara City – Japan),. UNESCO maintains a website and organizes evaluation and revalidation missions. UNESCO participates fully in the work of the Network and has a right-of-veto concerning all decisions made by the Network.

19. What kind of organisation is the Global Geoparks Network?Global Network of National Geoparks is a voluntary, co-operative organisation. It has a clearly defined internal structure comprised of a GGN Bureau and experts group and Secretariat.

20. What is the main aim of the network?The main aim of the Network is to support its members to bring sustainable territorial development to the geopark by using that territory’s geological heritage, primarily through the development of geotourism. It is our aspiration that geotourism can be developed in this way and that our Network members become a high quality brand of geotourism and sustainable development. The Network is responsible for the assessment of its members’ operation and services in order to promote the “GGN” label as a high quality brand in geotourism geoconservation and local sustainable development. Geopark management bodies are responsible for the establishment of a management and action plan which should describe its members operation and activities and should refer to the following issues: Earth heritage sites identification and assessment, natural and cultural heritage elements validation, geosite protection and geoconservation, scientific researches, Earth heritage interpretation infrastructure and activities, geotourism infrastructure and activities, environmental education activities and tools, promotional activities, support of local business, monitoring progress, international relationships.

21. How can a geopark use the logo?There is the GGN logo as well as the European Geoparks Logo which can be used by the European geoparks. We encourage to use the logo(s) on all Geopark related publications and products.

22. What is the best moment to submit an application?Applications can only be submitted when a Geopark is already de facto functioning. This means the application must be preceded by a successful planning and putting into practice phase. The Geopark must already be functioning at the moment the application is submitted. Submission period 1 October to 1 December every year. (more details under point 26).

23. How can I apply for membership in the GGN?The GGN guidelines are available on the UNESCO website, and refers to all criteria that are considered essential to prepare the dossier. http://portal.unesco.org/science/en/ev.php-URL_ID=6400&URL_DO=DO_TOPIC&URL_SECTION=201.html

The Geopark application dossier must be well written in English or French. National Geoparks seeking UNESCO’s assistance are invited to contact first their national governmental bodies responsible for Earth heritage and nature protection, tourism economy, and the UNESCO

7

National Commissions keeping them informed about the intention to build a Geopark and become member of the Network. With a view to ensure that Member States are fully informed on the application, i.e. the request to UNESCO for ad hoc support in the field of Geoparks, the National Commissions for UNESCO and the relevant appropriate governmental authorities in each Member State concerned need to be properly informed already in the preparation phase.

24. Which is the size and form of the Application dossier?The application should be written in English or French and submitted electronically and in 1 printed copy (soft cover). Further, in order to facilitate distribution of the application file among the desk-top evaluators, a link should be provided to download the application dossier by internet.

Format:Application dossier max. 50 pagesAppendix 1: self evaluationAppendix 2: copy and paste the geological section of the application, prefaced by geological summary of about 150 wordsThe application dossier must precisely follow the format and topics below, highlighting strong and weak points:

A – Identification of the Area1. Name of the proposed geopark2. Surface area, physical and human geography characteristics of the proposed geopark3. Organization in charge and management structure (description, function and organigram) of the proposed geopark4. Application contact person (name, position, tel./fax, e-mail)

B – Geological Heritage1. Location of the proposed geopark (please include a map and geo-reference coordinates)2. General geological description of the proposed geopark3. Listing and description of geological sites within the proposed geopark4. Details on the interest of these sites in terms of their international, national, regional or local value (for example scientific, educational, aesthetic)

C - Geoconservation1. Current or potential pressure on the proposed geopark2. Current status in terms of protection of geological sites within the proposed geopark3. Data on the management and maintenance of these sites4. Listing and description of non-geological sites and how they are integrated into the proposed geopark

D - Economic Activity & Business Plan (including detailed financial information)1. Economic activity in the proposed geopark2. Existing and planned facilities for the proposed geopark (e.g. geo-education, geo-tourism, tourism infrastructure etc)3. Analysis of geotourism potential of the proposed geopark4. Overview and policies for the sustainable development of:

- geo-tourism and economy- geo-education - geo-heritagePlease include examples illustrating activities in these sectors

5. Policies for, and examples of, community empowerment in the proposed geopark6. Policies for, and examples of, public and stakeholder awareness in the proposed geopark.

E – Interest and arguments for joining the Global Network of National Geoparks

8

Annex 1: Self evaluation document

Annex 2: Please make an additional submission of Section B (Geological Heritage) along with a summary of the geological interest which must not exceed 150 words (this will be used only for the geological desktop evaluators from IUGS – International Union of Geological Sciences)

The full application must not exceed 50 pages (including all photographs, maps, figures and diagrams) and the electronic version must not exceed a file size of 10MB.

25. Where shall the dossier be sent to?

All regions (except for Europe):Global Earth Observation SectionDivision of Ecological and Earth SciencesUNESCO1, rue Miollis75723 Paris Cedex 15FranceTel : 33 (0)1 45 68 41 18Fax : 33 (0)1 45 68 58 22Email : m.patzak@unesco.org ; ml.faber@unesco.org; s.laryea@unesco.org For European regions:Applications coming from European regions sill be evaluated in cooperation with the European Geoparks Network. Taking into account common goals for geological heritage activities, educating the public on the environment, and promoting regional sustainable development, namely through Geoparks, UNESCO has established close ties of cooperation with the European Geoparks Network (EGN). This co-operation is very fruitful through the numerous common meetings and expert missions and is of considerable value in raising public awareness of environmental matters and stimulating geotourism world-wide on a high standard of excellency. In order to apply the European model high quality standards in a wider context, UNESCO has decided to integrate national Geoparks in Europe through the EGN into the Global Network.

UNESCO and the EGN have signed two agreements regarding the integration of a European territory in the global network: the “AGREEMENT FOR COOPERATION BETWEEN THE DIVISION OF ERATH SCIENCES OF UNESCO AND THE NETWORK OF EUROPEAN GEOPARKS” signed by both parties, 23 April 2001, Almeria, Spain and the “Madonie Declaration”; signed 2004 in Madonie (Sicily). Following these agreement, the European Geoparks Network acts as the integration organization for the Global Network for the European continent and, consequently, any application of a Geopark in Europe which is sent to UNESCO will be dealt with the EGN mechanism.

A European territory wishing to become a member of the Global Network of Geoparks, is invited to submit a full application dossier through the Earth Observation Section of UNESCO to the European Geoparks Network. Geoparks, which have been accepted by the European network, are, after consultation with the group of independent experts, included in the Global Network.

European candidates can obtain more information through Mrs Sylvie Giraud (see address below) at the EGN Secretariat:

Mrs Sylvies GiraudRéserve Géologique de Haute Provence BP 15604500 Digne les Bains Cedex

9

FranceTel : 00 33 4 92 36 70 72Fax : 00 33 4 62 36 70 71Email : sy.Giraud@free.frOr s.giraud@resgeol04.org

26. When should and application be submitted and what is the evaluation procedure?Annual submission: 1 October - 1 December 2009 each yearField evaluation missions: starting 1 May Decisions on applications: during the following GGN Bureau meeting in autumn

Applications will be checked that all the information required is included and that the guidelines have been adhered to, and reviewed by January 31. Requests for further clarification, if necessary, will be issued to nominating territories by end of February at the latest. Desktop evaluations of the application will take place and the GGN will seek a statement from the IUGS (International Union of Geological Sciences) on the international value of the geological heritage of the applicant territory.

Evaluation missions will be carried out between May 1 – July 31 each year. It is the responsibility of the applicant territory to pay the travel, subsistence and accommodation expenses of two experts.

Evaluation reports will be circulated to GGN Bureau members by August 31. Evaluation missions will be discussed and decisions made at the autumn Bureau meeting of the GGN.

Should any application be deferred at the autumn meeting, it can only be considered fully again at the subsequent autumn meeting one year later.

27. Is How much costs the evaluation?Invitation of 2 experts paid by the territory.

28. Is there a limited number of Geopark within any one country?No.

But in terms of the number of applying Geopark projects the number is limited. In order to guarantee a balanced geographical representation of countries the number of active Geopark applications is restricted to two per country. Three Geopark applications can be permitted for countries, which apply for the first time and are not yet participating in the Network.

29. How much does it cost to run a Geopark?Isn’t this a question for the aspiring geopark? As a EGN/GGN geopark it might be too late to consider this after participation in the network? This is really a difficult question. And it is difficult to place a lot of the following issues in this section or the former. All the things about economy should be important to aspiring geoparks.The costs for the maintenance of a Geopark depend very much on the territory and the individual case, size, structure of Geopark and are therefore very different in each park. Geopark activities, geo-education etc. can be integrated in existing staff and infra-structure. In developed countries for example a minimum needed would be 2-4 Million Euros for a completely new Geopark but the long-term investment is open-ended. In developing and emerging countries the sum may be less

10

but a minimum of regular financial basis is needed in order to keep the activities running. A certain will to regularly invest must back up each intention to make a Geopark.

This basic investment serves to create work and sustainable development. It helps to support jobs in local contracting firms, other tourism facilities and in public sector organizations.  All of these people work and live in the Geopark region and spend most of their money there so a lot of money remains in the region. (Economists call this the multiplier effect, which means that money earned by local people circulates in a region rather than leaving it.)

Concrete examples in numbers:

Reserve Geologique Digne, France (active since 25 years), 230 km2 area, today works with 12-20 staff and has about 1 million Euro (1,200,000 USD) budget (most of the big investment costs are already in place since the inception like the most costly installations infrastructure, e.g. museum, outdoor visitor centres).

North Pennines Geopark, UK started 4 years ago with one manager responsible for the AONB (area of natural outstanding beauty) with 50.000 Euros (600,000 USD), next year 2.4 Million Euros (3,000,000 USD)are available.

Vulkaneifel Geopark, Germany being a tourism instrument has invested during the last 20 years about 12 million Euros (15,000,000 USD) on infrastructure and projects to which also local communities contributed. The Geopark itself does not produce income but is a service-provider for the local communities (who finance the Geopark 90.000 Euros (110,000 USD)+ individual donations for projects, total about 100.000-200.000 Euros (1,200,000-2,400,000 USD) annually, not counting staff costs.

Bergstrasse-Odenwald Geopark, Germany: During the three years of planning phase the park invested about 500,000 Euros (600,000 USD) per year. This included the development of a huge regional network, Geopark infrastructure, hiking and Geo-adventure trails, a wide range of projects with regional partners, ranger training, educational programmes, PR, production of free information material, publication of hiking books and maps, staff costs, maintenance costs.   

Marble Arch Caves Global Geopark, Northern Ireland: Fermanagh District Council's annual operational budget for the geopark is approximately €430,000 (530,000 USD, including staff and maintenance, projects, 25 full time employees).

30. What if a national geoparks network exists in a country?If in any country a formal "National Network for Geoparks" exists, then the applicant must first become a certified member of that national network before submitting its dossier for membership to the Global Network of National Geoparks. Comments made by the nationally competent body during a successful application procedure at the national level could form valuable appendices to the dossier.

The GGN is supported by the regional Networks which represent the activities and the Geoparks in different regions of the world and which contribute to the formation of the GGN. Besides the European Geoparks Network and the Asia Pacific Geoparks Network, Latin America and the Carribic as well as Africa are starting to prepare similar structures, which will be represented under the GGN.

11

What do you want to know after you became member of the Global Geoparks Network?

32. Is the period of membership of the network a limited?Membership of the Global Geoparks Network is limited to a period of four years for all members. After that, membership is re-evaluated. A list of re-evaluation criteria is available, though it is crucial that geoparks participate as active members of the Network to ensure continuing membership. If, following the revalidation exercise it is found that the geopark under consideration is operating fully and strongly as a member of the GGN, it will be awarded a “green card” and its membership of the GGN will be renewed for a further four year period. If, however, some problem has been identified, the GGN Bureau decide to award that territory a “yellow card’ and its membership of the GGN will be renewed for a two year period. Following the two year period a further revalidation exercise will be carried out which can either result in a “green card” if everything is found to be satisfactory again, or a “red card” should the original problem remain unresolved. In the latter instance, the territory will loose its membership of the GGN.

33. Is How much costs the revalidation?Invitation of 2 experts paid by the territory.If it is also a question about evaluation, it should also be in the first section.

34. What needs to be done to prepare a revalidation?The following documents need to be provided before the revalidation takes place:

1) The Progress evaluation formThis form is similar to the self-evaluation form but shows the development and progress.  2) Progress report made by the Geopark (free format)In order to send the document easily by e-mail, it must be smaller than 5MB (downsize pictures!) or must be accessible though ftp servers. This report must highlight special progress, advancements and success stories of the Geopark.

35. Does the membership cost anything? There is no subscription fee for Network members. Members however, incur costs by attending meetings and actively working within the Network. As part of the application preparation any potential new member may wish to invite an advisor from the Network to their territory and the costs of such a visit should be borne by the inviting territory. The nominating territory also has to cover the cost of travelling and accommodation for the two experts who are going to carry out the evaluation mission in the territory which follows the written application.

36. What are the annual costs involved in being a member of the Network?The cost of Geopark members travelling to and accommodation during the annual meetings. The participation at the International Geoparks Conference organized by UNESCO every two years is quasi obligatory, as well as participation in the regional Network meetings (Europe, Asia Pacific).

12

For the European Geoparks Network each member has also to cover an annual promotional fee (€1000) for the publication and distribution cost of the EGN magazine and other EGN promotional activities. Each member will receive 200 copies of the magazine.

Each member Geopark must also cover the cost of travelling and accommodation for the two experts who will carry out the revalidation mission of the territory every four years (or two years in the case of yellow card).

37. Are there any restrictions or legislation attached to being a member of the Global Geoparks Network? No. The Geopark member of the GGN has no legal status and does not imply any level of protection or restriction within a Geopark’s territory. Such measures can only ensue from national legislation. However, the ethics of the Geoparks concept foresees that no selling or destruction of the geological value or of material from inside or outside the Geopark is permitted (details see point 41).

38. What is the role of adhering to a network?The aim of the GGN is to provide a platform of cooperation and exchange between experts and practitioners in geological heritage matters under the umbrella of UNESCO. The network shall comprise all regions of the world and shall bring together groups that share a common values, interests or backgrounds. The international Network of National Geopark shall serve to develop models of best practice and set standards for territories that integrate the preservation of geological heritage in a strategy for regional sustainable economic development.Geoparks that are part of the Network shall:

1) preserve geological heritage for future generations(conservation)2) educate and teach the broad public about issues in geological science and

environmental matters ( education)3) ensure sustainable socio-economic development (tourism, geotourism)

The impact on the area will be immediate, by improving human living conditions and the rural environment, strengthening identification of the population with their area and triggering cultural renaissance. Respectful of the environment; Geoparks stimulate, for example, the creation of innovative local enterprises, small business, cottage industries and new jobs, generate new sources of revenue. This provides supplementary income for the local population and shall attract private capital.

39. Can I construct in my Geopark? Yes of course. Sustainable development human and social activity are essential parts of a geopark. “Geoparks are not just about rocks-they are about people. It is crucial that they get involved-we want to see as many people as possible getting out and enjoying the geology of the area. Our aim is to maximise geotourism (...) for the benefit of the local economy and to help people to understand the evolution of their local landscape." (Chris Woodley-Stewart, Geopark Manager, North Pennines AONB, United Kingdom).

However, every activity has to be sustainable and compatible with the conservation of the local geological heritage.

40. Is the collection of original geological material (e.g. rocks, minerals, fossils) permitted within a Geopark?

13

Yes, the collecting of original geological material is permitted within a geopark provided that is done in a sustainable manner or for scientific/educational purposes and that it is carried out under scientific supervision and in accordance with local legislation.A Geopark area must respect all country local, state, and federal laws, especially those related to the protection of geological heritage and artifacts. Management officials must not participate in the direct sale of geological objects* within the Geopark area (regardless of origin), and should actively discourage unsustainable sale or trade in geological material as a whole, including selling of minerals and fossils. However, appropriate collecting of geological materials for scientific or educational purposes may be permitted within the Geopark if the management plan allows for such in a controlled manner.

41. Is the selling of any original geological material (e.g. rocks, minerals, fossils) permitted within a Geopark? No, the selling or destruction of the geological value of a geopark or of material either from within the geopark or from anywhere else in the world is not permitted. The Geopark managing body must not participate directly in the sale of geological objects* within the Geopark (no matter from where they are) and should actively discourage unsustainable trade in geological materials as a whole, including shortsighted selling of Earth heritage, minerals and fossils. This does not refer to quarried or mined material for industrial or domestic use that is quarried or mined under national legislation.

Where clearly justified as a responsible activity and as part of delivering the most effective and sustainable means of site management, it may permit sustainable collecting of geological materials for scientific and educational purposes from naturally renewable sites within the Geopark. Trade of geological materials (in accordance with national legislation on Earth heritage conservation) based on such a system may be tolerated in exceptional circumstances, provided it is clearly and publicly explained, justified and monitored as the best option for the Geopark in relation to local circumstances. Such circumstances will be subject to debate and approval by the GGN on a case-by-case basis. Selling of polished building rock material, artwork made out of building stone would be permitted.

*Geological objects refer to specimens of rock, minerals and fossils of a type that are commonly sold in so-called “rock-shops.” It does not refer to material for normal industrial and household use which is sourced by quarrying and/or mining and which will be subject to regulation under national and/or international legislation.

42. What duties are linked of being a member?It is important to participate in the activities of the network. Like attend meetings,contribute to common publications, keeping the network updated about the geoparks activities and events.

14

How did it all get started? Geopark and geological heritage activities started by enthusiastic individuals outside UNESCO and was under discussion since the 1990ieas. The meeting in Digne, France and issue of the International Declaration of the rights of the memory of the Earth (1991), the Task Force was established at the 2nd Conference on Geological and Landscape Conservation held in Malvern, United Kingdom in July 1993. Also the geological heritage discussion during the International Geological Congresses contributed (1996, Beijing, PR China, 2000 Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, 2004 Florence, Italy.

The European Geoparks Network was established in June 2000 by four territories. In 2001 the European Geoparks Network signed a formal agreement with the Division of Earth Sciences UNESCO and endorsed the network. A further agreement was signed with UNESCO in 2004 whereby the EGN was given responsibility for regulating membership of the UNESCO Global Network of Geoparks in Europe.

2) Geoparks and its relations to World HeritageThe Geoparks are mentioned in the WH global theme study:GEOLOGICAL WORLD HERITAGE: A GLOBAL FRAMEWORK - A Contribution to the Global Theme Study of World Heritage Natural Sites(Prepared by Paul Dingwall, Tony Weighell and Tim Badman, Protected Area Programme, IUCN, September 2005)This report discusses role of the World Heritage Convention in recognizing and protecting geological and geomorphological heritage, and presents proposals based on a global consultation.

In 2004, UNESCO – through the IGCP – adopted the Geopark idea and ran it globally as the GGN.The Geoparks were officially proposed for the first time in 1999 as a UNESCO Programme (156 EX 11 Rev.) following the model of the Man and the Biosphere Programme. The former Director of the Division of Earth Sciences, Mr Wolfgang Eder used the MAB guidelines as line of orientation. Several delegates during the discussions in UNESCO’s Executive Board referred to the proposal to launch a UNESCO Geoparks Programme either in a supportive or critical manner, it was therefore concluded to examine the question further on the basis of a feasibility study involving IGCP, MAB and the World Heritage Centre. This feasibility study, prepared by an external expert in geological heritage conservation, was presented at the 160th EX Bd session and concluded that hosting Geoparks as an activity within the World Network of Biosphere Reserves of the MAB Programme would offer the most appropriate mechanism for strengthening geological heritage conservation in UNESCO’s programmes. The MAB Council which discussed this proposal subsequently decided against the inclusion of a Geoparks Programme as part of the World Network of Biosphere Reserves.

This was presented in 2001 to the 161st session of UNESCO’s Executive Board where the majority of Delegates supported the idea to ‘support ad hoc efforts within individual Member States as appropriate’, as their countries would benefit from UNESCO’s provision of support to and operation with national geological heritage initiatives. This lead to the Decision (161 EX/Decisions 3.3.1) on which basis we are currently operating:

“...Invites the Director-General not to pursue the development of a UNESCOgeosites/geoparks programme, but instead to support ad hoc efforts withMember States as appropriate.”(complete text please see below)

15

In summary, the launching of a Geoparks Programme as proposed by the former Director SC/GEO did not work as the relation to the MAB concept was too close and the UNESCO Member States did not wish proliferation of new programmes, due to lack of substantial funding for additional initiatives. National geopark initiatives were just on the point of emerging but not known much at that stage, and almost no lobbying was undertaken by SC/GEO within UNESCO and at Member States’ level.

16