Latest news with #Geopark
BBC News
25-05-2025
- Entertainment
- BBC News
Film brings to life 600-million-year story of Jersey
A campaign video has been launched as part of Jersey's bid for worldwide recognition of the geological significance of its Heritage is hoping to gain accreditation as a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Global successful, Jersey would be added to the list of more than 200 Geoparks across the video named A Symphony of Creation features the story of an island forged by fire, ice and sea. Visit Jersey said the film brought to life the raw, elemental story of Jersey's formation. Geosites featured in the campaign included La Couperon, Les Blanches Banques, Plémont, Le Pulec, Devil's Hole and Le Pinacle. Each tells a chapter in the island's 600-million-year story, Visit Jersey said. 'Build community' Paul Chambers, head of Jersey Island Geopark, said: "The campaign aims to raise awareness and build community support as Jersey enters the next stage of the submission process for UNESCO designation. "The film takes viewers on a visual and auditory journey through the Island's deep-time creation story – told not with words, but through the universal languages of music and nature."Visit Jersey said the benefits of becoming a UNESCO Global Geopark included sustainable tourism, environmental advocacy, education and engagement and global recognition. The campaign was led by the Jersey Island Geopark team and supported by Visit Jersey and ArtHouse Jersey.
Borneo Post
15-05-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Three key pillars identified to boost Bau's development, says Abg Jo
(From left) Abang Johari outlines three key pillars to boost Bau's development. Also seen are Abdul Karim and Willie. – Photo by Mohd Faisal Ahmad BAU (May 15): Bau District's development will receive a boost from three key pillars, said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg. He highlighted Bau's tremendous potential as a tourism and economic hub by leveraging its unique geology, history, and local cultural heritage. 'Bau is endowed with very unique natural treasures. Its mountains, caves, terrain, and ecosystems are natural assets that can be transformed into a new economic capital. 'Bau is now part of the Kuching Geopark, which has already been recognised as a National Geopark, and God willing, in the next two years, we will list this Geopark as a Unesco site. 'This means Bau will be placed on the international Unesco map, and we will uplift the quality of life for the people of Bau by creating new economic activities,' he said at the 205th Bau District Anniversary, launch of the 2025 Tasik Biru Festival, and launching of Tasik Biru Resort City here today. Abang Johari stressed the need to add value to natural assets through human capital development. He said human capital is the foundation of the new global economy and must be enhanced for Sarawak to emerge as a major player in this new economy. 'We already have natural capital, and what we need to do is improve our human capital. That is why the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government under my leadership is providing free education to Sarawakian children pursuing studies at state-owned universities,' he said. During a press conference, Abang Johari thanked the private sector, particularly Tecktonic & Sons Holdings Sdn Bhd managing director Lee Chin Teck for his contributions to the development of Tasik Biru Resort City. He described such investments as catalysts for economic growth in Bau and Greater Kuching. 'With tourism strategies and supporting infrastructure such as a new airport and our own state airline, Bau has the potential to attract up to 100,000 tourists annually. 'This will create many job opportunities and raise the living standards of Bau residents,' said Abang Johari. He said Bau's growth is part of a larger strategy under the Greater Kuching Coordinated Development Agency (GKCDA), which also covers areas like Serian. Abang Johari likened Serian to New Zealand and said Bau, with its proximity to Kuching and good accessibility, holds significant potential as a development catalyst — a 'game changer' for the region. 'With well-planned strategies and close cooperation between the public and private sectors, I am confident that Bau will continue to thrive and become an important part of Sarawak's future,' said Abang Johari. Among those present were Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah; Deputy Minister for Transport (Maritime and Riverine) Datuk Henry Harry Jinep; and Puncak Borneo MP Datuk Willie Mongin. abang johari Bau development lead
Times
13-05-2025
- Times
A gentle seven-mile countryside hike starting at Alfrick
The Leigh Brook wanders through rural Worcestershire from the Suckley Hills eastwards to its confluence with the Teme. Starting as a steep-sided gorge, the valley opens into peaceful meadows and pasture, dotted with ancient coppice. The area lies within the Abberley and Malvern Hills Geopark, recognised for its unique blend of geology, landscapes, ecology, history and culture. We set out from Alfrick on a blazing spring day, passing the intriguing church of St Mary's with its early-12th-century nave and windows. A week of sunshine had greened up the landscape, and we followed Folly Road past fields, trees and hedgerows buzzing and twittering with life. Leaving the lane, a footpath skirted the edge of Hayley Dingle, one of several steep-sided, densely wooded dells carved through the
The Star
05-05-2025
- The Star
Feature: How China-aided project is breathing new life into Tanzania's Ngorongoro Lengai Geopark
by Xinhua writer Hua Hongli DAR ES SALAAM, May 5 (Xinhua) -- At the rim of Tanzania's Ngorongoro Crater, mist still clings to the plains as herds of wildebeest and zebra roam below. From a newly built lookout platform, visitors from around the world now take in the sweeping view alongside signage in Swahili, English, and Chinese, a subtle but powerful sign of transformation. The Ngorongoro Lengai UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) Global Geopark, once on the verge of losing its UNESCO status, is experiencing a revival through China's first foreign-aid geological park project. The project was launched in June 2023 after the park received a yellow card warning from UNESCO in 2022. Problems centered on poor visitor infrastructure and inadequate scientific content. The effort combines scientific support and upgraded infrastructure to restore the park's global standing while boosting conservation, education, and tourism. China responded by providing both technical assistance, through the Tianjin Center, China Geological Survey, and physical infrastructure, handled by the China Railway 25th Bureau Group. "It was a new experience for everyone," said Xu Jiangbo, technical lead of the physical infrastructure project on site. "We had to work closely with our Tanzanian partners to solve logistical challenges, deal with the rainy season, and make every step count." Much of the work has been completed, Xu noted, adding that a museum, designed as the landmark building of the geopark, is set to open in June this year, and digital displays, immersive storytelling, and scientific exhibits will introduce visitors to the evolution of the East African Rift Valley, the historical eruptive activity of Ol Doinyo Lengai volcano, and the Laetoli footprints. The technical aid will be completed by November, featuring a geological heritage survey, museum exhibition design, and training of local staff. Simon Moses, a 48-year-old local masonry technician, led a construction crew at the museum site. "I've learned so many new techniques. My Chinese supervisor explains everything clearly," he said. Pride shone on his face as Moses gestured to the museum, which blends African tribal motifs with design inspirations from China's Temple of Heaven and Fujian Tulou residential architecture. The building also incorporates green technologies such as solar panels. Further down the slope, Elisante Hando, a 31-year-old technician assistant, was installing lights in the museum. "I joined eight months ago and didn't know I would learn so much," he said. "Now, I know how to use new tools and techniques. I feel prepared for what comes after this project." His words reflected a larger benefit -- capacity building for local youth. "This project is not just about building things; it's about building people," Elisante said. Neema Mollel, 52, a hotel owner and former tour guide, saw more profound significance in the project. As a member of the Maasai community, she was grateful for how the project is preserving local heritage. "Our traditions are tied to this land. Now tourists will not only see animals, but understand our stories," she said, adding that with better signage, roads, and visitor centers, tourists are staying longer, creating more business for local hotels and shops. Kitoi Mbise, a geography teacher from Arusha, called the project a game-changer for education. "This park brings my classroom to life. When I teach about volcanoes or sustainable tourism, I can now point to a real place where it's happening." Mbise said he will use the park to explain conservation, show how tourism can lift economies, and introduce students to fields like environmental science and digital mapping. For Anna Keller, a 65-year-old German tourist, the changes are noticeable. "The facilities are clean, the signage is clear, and the culture is presented with respect. It makes the experience richer, not just more convenient," she said while touring the area with her husband. Sun Kai, deputy director of the Southern Africa Geoscience Cooperation Center of the Tianjin Center, China Geological Survey, expressed his belief that the project is more than just aid. "It is a contribution of Chinese expertise to the global protection of geological heritage. And it shows what meaningful cooperation can look like," he said. As the peak travel season approaches, Ngorongoro Lengai Geopark is more prepared than ever. Its spectacular volcanoes, ancient footprints, and wandering wildlife now share the spotlight with new stories, stories of partnership, learning, and respect.
The Herald Scotland
01-05-2025
- Health
- The Herald Scotland
Mosquitoes found as far north as Shetland in new study
The project, which was awarded a £1.25 million grant from UK Research and Innovation and Defra in 2023, is the first to assess the risk of mosquito-borne pathogen emergence in Scotland under current and future climate change scenarios. Since May 2024, members of the public have sent researchers hundreds of images of 21 species of mosquito, and pictures of bites. Mosquitoes are a natural part of Scottish ecosystems and can have positive impacts on the environment through their role in food webs, according to researchers. They said they do not pose a health risk at present, and can be mistaken for midges. READ MORE: Loch Lomond campaign launched to form 'deeper' nature connection Scottish island awarded Global Geopark status by UNESCO 'Ambitious' project to catalogue Scotland's ancient trees begins As mosquito activity in Scotland picks up moving towards summer, the Mosquito Scotland team are urging the public to continue sending in sightings, which will enable the project to accurately track and understand the ecology of the insects, after they began to spread avian malaria in England. Sightings of mosquitoes were sent to the Mosquito Scotland team every month in 2024, with reports peaking in the spring and summer but also continuing in cooler months right up to December, according to reports submitted online. Mosquitoes were spotted across the length and breadth of Scotland, with a sighting in the Shetland Isles now the northernmost record for the UK. Reports show they are most commonly reported in woodland areas – particularly in pine forests in the east of Scotland, as well as indoors in cities. Researchers were able to confirm three mosquito species, Aedes cantans, Aedes punctor and Aedes rusticus, were the main source of nuisance biting. Researchers aim to find out which mosquito species are present, where they are found, whether they are harbouring any diseases, or if they could become infected by pathogens that may expand into the UK with climate change. Mosquitoes can be found in colder, more remote parts of Scotland, where they are most active from May to October. Dr Georgia Kirby said: 'There were several areas of Scotland where we received lots of reports of bites but very few photos of the culprits – understandably, as most people don't want to hold still for a photo while they're being bitten by insects. 'We had suspected that midges or clegs could be responsible, but in our follow-up investigations we invariably found that these locations were swarming with mosquitoes – proving that people in Scotland are good at recognising them and distinguishing them from more familiar insects. 'Most of these sites were areas of dense woodland, which is a key habitat for several aggressive human-biting mosquito species.' Researchers advised using insect repellent and wearing long sleeves during summer months when mosquitoes are active in forested areas, which also protects against other biting pests such as ticks and midges. Heather Ferguson, professor of infectious disease ecology at the University of Glasgow, who leads the project, said: 'We are delighted and grateful for the positive response and enthusiasm from members of the public. 'Their participation has helped fill large gaps in our understanding of mosquitoes both in Scotland and the UK, which is allowing us to build a picture of how the biodiversity benefits, and any potential risks, posed by these species will respond to environmental change. 'We would love to hear more from the public in 2025.'
