The European Geoparks Network - Geological heritage protection and local development

Abstract

The European Geoparks Network was established in June 2000 by four regions of different European Countries-France, Germany, Spain and Greece-with similar natural and socioeconomic characteristics. These four regions are rural areas, with a particular geological heritage, natural beauty and high cultural potential, all facing problems of slow economic development, unemployment and a high level of emigration. Faced with these problems, the managing authorities of the geological parks and museums in these regions have decided to strengthen their collaboration, and as a result the European Geoparks Network has been established. Its main objective is to cooperate on the protection of the geological heritage and the promotion of sustainable development in their territories. The European Geoparks Network was built up with the support of the European Union initiatives. The founding members of the European Geoparks Network are: Reserve Geologique de Haute-Provence-France, The Petrified Forest of Lesvos (Natural History Museum of the Lesvos Petrified Forest, Island of Lesvos)-Greece, Geopark Gerolstein/Vulkaneifel-Germany and Maestrazgo Cultural Park-Spain. These four geoparks signed a convention on Lesvos Island, Greece in June 2000 declaring the creation of the European Geoparks Network. Together they own the "European Geopark" trademark, which is registered within all member states of the European Union. The purpose of this general designation would he to share information and expertise, and to define certain common tools in areas of common interest.