UNESCO Global Geoparks located around the world are unique natural and cultural formations that combine natural history, cultural heritage, scientific achievements, and local traditions. This is reported by MiddleAsianNews.
These territories not only attract attention with their picturesque geology but also serve as important sites for studying the Earth's history, the evolution of life, and human impact on nature. They represent a system that promotes sustainable development and harmony between the environment and human activity.
China, our neighbor to the south, has the largest number of geoparks in the world, accounting for 20% of the total number of UNESCO geoparks. A striking example is the Zhangjiajie Geopark, known for its impressive limestone pillars and majestic mountains shrouded in mist. This region also gained fame due to the film "Avatar," which was shot here.
The geological formations of this region were created as a result of tectonic processes that occurred 300 million years ago, and today they attract the attention of tourists and scientists. This outstanding site, which combines natural beauty and scientific value, is one of the most vivid examples of Chinese geoparks included in the UNESCO list.
In Europe, there are 94 geoparks, in Asia and the Pacific region — 104, in Latin America — 9, in North America — 5, and in Africa — 6.
Mongolia is striving to become part of this unique network of geoparks for the first time.
The Shar-Tsav region, located in the Manlai sum of the Umnugovi aimag, is known for its unique heritage, where over 13,600 dinosaur fossils have been found, including the remains of the bird-like dinosaur Avimimus (Avimimus protentosus Kurzanov, 1981), which exists only in Mongolia. Currently, the region is preparing for inclusion in the international Global Geoparks network.
The project, implemented with the support of UNESCO and Rio Tinto, aims to develop sustainable tourism in Mongolia and protect its valuable geological heritage. As part of this project, preparations are underway to include Shar-Tsav in the Global Geoparks Network.
The establishment of a geopark will not only preserve geological and natural heritage but also bring numerous benefits, including improving the living conditions of local residents and increasing the popularity of national crafts and traditional dishes on the international stage through tourism.
The creation of the Shar-Tsav geopark will allow Mongolia to join the Global Geoparks Network and present its rich history, preserved across the Gobi for millions of years, to the world. This is an important step that opens new horizons for the local population and demonstrates the harmony of coexistence between humans and nature.
Mongolia is preparing to establish its first geopark, which will be included in the UNESCO list, in the South Gobi, where dinosaurs once roamed.
