UNESCO Adds 12 New Global Geoparks, Expanding Network to 241 Sites

Current Context: In April 2026, UNESCO designated 12 new Global Geoparks, expanding the network to 241 sites across 51 countries, covering an area nearly the size of Venezuela.

• The new sites showcase diverse geology—from Changshan (China), a fossil‑rich paleontology hub, to Mt. Siguniang, alpine terrain on the Tibetan Plateau.
• Nisyros (Greece) features an active hydrothermal crater, while Joyce Country (Ireland) records 700 million years of mountain‑building history.
• Miné‑Akiyoshidai Karst (Japan) adds vast limestone caves, and Lenggong (Malaysia) preserves early human archaeological evidence.
• Tunisia’s Dahar became its first geopark, highlighting desert geology, while Uruguay’s Manantiales Serranos showcases ancient metamorphic rocks.
• This expansion strengthens geological heritage conservation, education, eco‑tourism, and sustainable development worldwide.

Question:

Q.1 Which of the following countries got its first-ever Global Geopark in 2026?
a) Uruguay
b) Ireland
c) Malaysia
d) Tunisia

Answer: d) Tunisia’s Dahar became its first geopark, highlighting desert geology, while Uruguay’s Manantiales Serranos showcases ancient metamorphic rocks.