International Geoscience and Geoparks programme (IGGP)

Earth Sciences provide us with invaluable knowledge about our planet, its systems and its 4.6-billion-year history. This knowledge is essential for responding to present-day challenges of human society, such as preserving our Earth’s resources for future generations, mitigating the impact of global warming and mitigating the risks of geological hazards. UNESCO is the only United Nations organization with a mandate to support research and capacity in Earth Sciences and the International Geoscience and Geoparks Programme is our flagship.

Following of the endorsement of the Member States, UNESCO’s International Geoscience and Geoparks Programme (IGGP) is implemented through two co-operative ventures with the International Union of Geological Sciences (IUGS) and the Global Geoparks Network. IGCP and UGGp Councils coordinate their work through a shared UNESCO Secretariat and joint coordination meetings of their respective bureau which convene as necessary. The chairpersons of the two respective Councils co-chair the IGGP.

The International Geoscience Programme (IGCP), since 1972, has harnessed the intellectual capacity of a worldwide network of geoscientists to lay the foundation for our planet’s future, focusing on responsible and environmental resource extraction, natural hazard resiliency and preparedness, and adaptability in the era of a changing climate.

UNESCO Global Geoparks (UGGp) are laboratories for sustainable development which promote the recognition and management of Earth heritage, and the sustainability of local communities. There are 177 UNESCO Global Geoparks within 46 Member States, covering a total area of 370,662 km².