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The Global Geoparks Network (GGN), which is supported by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), announced its acceptance of Hong Kong National Geopark as a member of the GGN at the 10th European Geoparks Conference in Langesund, Norway on September 17 (Langesund time).
Subsequent to becoming a member of the GGN, Hong Kong National Geopark was officially renamed as Hong Kong Global Geopark of China. With the inclusion of Hong Kong Global Geopark of China, the GGN now has 87 members in 27 countries throughout Europe, Asia, South America, Australia, the Middle East and North America.
"The designation of Hong Kong Global Geopark of China is a worldwide recognition of the significant geological heritage of the region, as well as its great potential for sustainable development," said the Secretary for the Environment, Mr Edward Yau, at the conference in Norway.
"The range of significant geological sites and features within Hong Kong Geopark and its proximity to the urban area are internationally unique. Our acceptance into the GGN makes Hong Kong Geopark an international icon that will attract both tourists and citizens, and will also serve as a strong catalyst for the continuous preservation of the environment," he noted.
Mr Yau attributed the success of this application to incredible community support as well as the work of the organisations, government departments, businesses and individuals who were engaged in this project. The GGN Bureau also identified this broad-based support as one of the major assets of Hong Kong Geopark's application. The success of Hong Kong being conferred this world class honour is also made possible by the support and assistance in the nomination process rendered by the Ministry of Land and Resources of the People's Republic of China.
According to UNESCO requirements, a geopark should not only possess special geological features and landforms, but also provide social and economic benefits to the surrounding communities by promoting sustainable geo-tourism. Geoparks are established to protect geological heritage, popularise geo-scientific knowledge and promote local economic development through sustainable, nature-based tourism. In considering whether to accept a geopark as a member, the GGN assesses whether the applicant fulfils all these requirements.
Hong Kong Geopark is located in Sai Kung and the north-eastern part of Hong Kong, and became a national geopark in November 2009. Various facilities have since been provided for visitors to the geopark to learn more about geo-features and geo-conservation, including a visitor centre, four geo-heritage centres and 10 geo-tour routes (including both land and sea routes). Since its opening, it has drawn over 1.5 million visitors.
Ends/Sunday, September 18, 2011
Issued at HKT 15:09
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