Natural England - European Geoparks
European Geoparks
European Geoparks are areas in Europe with an outstanding geological heritage.
To be selected as a Geopark the area should be managed in a way that:
conserves geological heritage
promotes the enjoyment and understanding of geology, and
supports sustainable development.
European Geoparks usually contain a network of sites, which in England include geological SSSIs and Local Geological Sites (or RIGS), within a wider geological setting.
The European Geopark Network (EGN) was established in June 2000 to share experience and to administer the selection of European Geoparks. European Geoparks are also part of the Global Geopark Network which is supported by UNESCO.
How many are there?
There are over 30 Geoparks within the EGN. There are two in England, the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the English Riviera in Devon.
How are they managed?
A European Geopark’s management and conservation is based upon existing local legislation and management plans. Each European Geopark must have its own management plan, a strong supporting partnership and sustained resources to ensure the on-going delivery of the management plan.
An important aim of the EGN is to promote sustainable development within the Geopark through geological tourism (geotourism). European Geoparks aim to raise the awareness of visitors and local communities about geology, so that geology is more clearly valued and the need for its conservation is better understood and supported.