Geoparks – linking geosciences, nature and society for a sustainable future

Geoparks are an important link between science and the public. In the guise of geotourism, they not only strengthen sustainable regional development, but also offer an interesting encounters with geology and the profound history of our planet. Geoparks enable universal access to the earth as a habitat and thus strengthen respect for nature in society.

The concept of Geoparks is designed to captivate, interest and educate people from different backgrounds. From an early age, visitors can immerse themselves in the history of the earth in a playful way with information boards, information points and games. Geoparks also offer a wide range of activities for adults: numerous geosites, guided tours, themed cycling and hiking trails and more, deepen the understanding of the environment and geology among interested locals and tourists. In this context, the Geoparks also play a decisive role, as they maintain, protect and preserve the geological heritage in the spirit of international research with their regional network.

In addition to its status as an extracurricular educational site, the Geopark Ries educational network for example enables "Geopark Ries Schools" to implement projects directly in exchange with teachers and pupils. There are teaching materials on the Ries event, projects for the preservation of intangible cultural heritage and a series of events “From science to the classroom” in cooperation with universities.

Geoparks therefore play an important role in raising public awareness of the relationship between geology, nature and people, thereby laying a solid foundation for a sustainable future.