(Bonavista, NL, July 19, 2019) – Discovery Aspiring Geopark, a candidate for UNESCO Global Geoparks designation, is welcoming evaluators from UNESCO to undergo its field evaluation mission. Professor, Dr. Nickolas Zouros, University of Aegean, Greece; President of the Global Geoparks Network (GGN) and Ms. Kana Furusawa, Vice Secretary General, Japanese Geoparks Network, Japan will be meeting stakeholders and touring the Aspiring Geopark July 22-24, 2019.
“Discovery is a community-driven, grassroots organization working diligently toward UNESCO Global Geoparks status. This project unites the region’s geological heritage with its rich natural and cultural history, while emphasizing environmental awareness, public education and economic sustainability” said Chair, John Norman. “The remarkable work that has already taken place can only be eclipsed by the potential that comes with such a global designation. This initiative illustrates the enduring effort of a dedicated Board of Directors and volunteers throughout the Bonavista Peninsula.”
Discovery applied to be designated as a UNESCO Global Geopark in November 2018. Recommendations on applications by UNESCO will occur in September 2019, and a decision is announced in April 2020. UNESCO Global Geoparks are geographical areas where sites and landscapes of international geological significance are managed with an approach of combining conservation, education with sustainable development while involving communities. There are currently 147 UNESCO Global Geoparks in 41 countries around the globe, three of which are in North America (Canada).
For more information please contact
Media Contact
Amanda McCallum
Project Manager, Discovery Aspiring Geopark
709-693-6828
[email protected]
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