Network meeting at the 17th European Geopark Conference in Iceland
From 2 to 4 October 2024, the 17th European Geopark Conference took place in the Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark in Iceland. With over 400 participants from around 100 geoparks in 30 countries, the event offered a unique opportunity to discuss current challenges and developments in the international geopark community. Under the motto ‘UNESCO Global Geoparks - Thriving Amidst Nature's Tests’, the focus was on the role of geoparks in dealing with global crises such as the climate and biodiversity crisis.
The UNESCO Global Geopark (UGGp) Swabian Alb was represented at the conference by geologist Iris Bohnacker and member of the Scientific Advisory Board, Prof. Heidi Elisabeth Megerle, represented the organisation. In her presentation, Prof Megerle focussed on geotourism geotourism and the question of how the geological heritage can be adequately geological heritage can be adequately protected in times of overtourism. In many cases, tourism has tourism has long since exceeded the limits of a destination and is therefore damaging the environment as well as society and the economy.
The conference also offered impressive insights into how the population is dealing with the effects of the current volcanic eruptions in Iceland. The mayor of Grindavik, Fannar Jónasson, whose town had to be evacuated in 2023, spoke about this. Icelandic scientists gave an overview of the fascinating geology of the only place in the world where a mid-ocean ridge can be marvelled at on the earth's surface.
In addition to 230 scientific lectures and workshops on topics such as geoheritage, sustainability, education and climate change, participants were able to take part in an excursion. In addition to the fascinating volcanic landscape of Iceland, the participants learnt about educational projects and innovative tourism concepts in the Reykjanes Geopark.
The conference emphasised the growing importance of geoparks as platforms for tackling global challenges and the international exchange of knowledge and experience. The UNESCO Global Geopark Swabian Alb presented itself as an active part of this network and contributes to sustainable development through its international cooperation.
