Quzhou's Changshan Geopark gains recognition at UNESCO conference
The 11th International Conference on UNESCO Global Geoparks, held from Sept 8 to 12 in Chile, saw unanimous approval of Changshan Geopark's establishment as a UNESCO Global Geopark by the UNESCO Global Geoparks Council.
Changshan Geopark is located in Changshan county, Quzhou city, East China's Zhejiang province.
Changshan officially began its application for the UNESCO Global Geopark status at the start of 2023. To promote its elevation, it collaborated with institutions like the Nanjing Institute of Geology and Palaeontology of the Chinese Academy of Sciences.
In July, UNESCO evaluators praised Changshan for its achievements in the protection of geological heritage, scientific research, education, and community engagement.
A view of Changshan Geopark in Changshan county, Quzhou, Zhejiang province. [Photo/Tide News]
The council's unanimous approval is a testament to Changshan's efforts in geological resource conservation and sustainable development.
The decision will be submitted to the Global Geoparks Network Executive Board, with official results expected in March next year.
During the Chile conference, Changshan's distinctive cultural and agricultural products, including creative products, Changshanhuyou tangelo, and camellia oil, also attracted keen interest from locals and the media at a display.
The International Conference on UNESCO Global Geoparks is a biennial international event that gathers experts, scholars, and members of the Global Geoparks Network to share their latest achievements and experiences in the building and operation of geoparks.