UNESCO evaluators visit Ynys Môn for Global Geopark review
The evaluators toured geological and cultural sites during their trip, which is part of the formal assessment process that will determine whether Ynys Môn retains its UNESCO Global Geopark status - a status which only one other site in Wales holds, and which just 220 sites in total hold worldwide.
Ynys Môn's holding of the status is due to its containing rock formations from "nearly every geological period" (in the words of a spokesperson), which collectively tell the story of 1.8 billion years of the history of Earth.
Ms Medi said: "It was fantastic to welcome the UNESCO evaluators and show them our 'can‑do island' spirit - strong partnerships, hard work, and determination.
"This status helps protect our environment, boost education, attract tourism, and create jobs right here at home.
"I want to thank the dedicated team at GeoMôn, and all the volunteers who work so hard to share our geological heritage with the world."
Earlier this month, Ms Medi tabled a parliamentary motion acknowledging the global significance of Ynys Môn's geology and praising GeoMôn's efforts.
She also raised the issue in Parliament, calling for greater recognition of the island's educational and environmental value.
She said: "We're incredibly lucky to live on an island that shows 1.8 billion years of Earth's story.
"I want to make sure that Ynys Môn continues to be recognised and celebrated globally for its unique landscape."
Gary Pritchard, leader of Ynys Môn county council, said: "As the leader of the council I am extremely proud to support GeoMôn during the revalidation of our island's UNESCO Global Geopark status.
"The work that GeoMôn's volunteers do is exceptional, and a vital asset to our island in the areas of education, heritage, and tourism.'
A spokesman for Bangor Business School added: "We value the opportunities that the UNESCO Global Geopark status provides as a rich context for both teaching and research.
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"Within our Tourism Management programme, it enriches student fieldwork and lecture content, and supports students' engagement with sustainable tourism.
"We hope UNESCO will revalidate Ynys Môn's Global Geopark status."
More information about UNESCO's Global Geoparks is available at https://www.unesco.org/en/iggp/geoparks
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