Latest news with #UNESCOGlobalGeoparksNetwork
Kuwait Times
17-05-2025
- Science
- Kuwait Times
Kuwait Society for Geosciences eyes UNESCO Global Geoparks Network listing for key sites
Establishing geological parks aligns with sustainable development objectives KUWAIT: Chairman of the Kuwait Society for Geosciences Dr Mubarak Al-Hajri affirmed that Kuwait is home to several significant geological sites that are eligible for inclusion in the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network. In remarks to Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) on Saturday, Dr Al-Hajri stressed that establishing geological parks in the country aligns with sustainable development objectives, serves as a potential source of national income, and supports the tourism sector. Dr Al-Hajri noted that listing local geological sites under the Global Geoparks Network is a strategic goal for the Society and a vital step in preserving the country's natural and cultural heritage. He emphasized that the initiative could be realized through cooperation with relevant government bodies. Explaining the nature of geological parks, he said they are geographically defined areas known for their unique and diverse geological features, and are managed comprehensively to protect their heritage while promoting sustainable development. These parks support education, tourism, local community participation, and job creation. Subiya geological site that mimics the surface of Mars. Natural laboratories open to students and researchers to study Earth sciences. An attractive site for visitors interested in nature, contributing to strengthening the local economy and raising environmental awareness. 'Geological parks serve as open-air laboratories for students and researchers to explore earth sciences, biodiversity, and climatic history,' he stated. 'They are also attractive destinations for nature enthusiasts, thereby contributing to the local economy and fostering environmental awareness.' Citing international examples, Dr Al-Hajri said many countries have successfully leveraged geological parks to reduce disaster risks and raise public awareness on seismic and volcanic hazards. These parks also serve as sanctuaries for rare ecosystems, helping to safeguard biodiversity. Outlining the Society's vision, Dr Al-Hajri described the project as a national endeavor that requires the collaboration of government entities, private sector partners, civil society organizations, and academic institutions. He highlighted the importance of incorporating cultural and heritage components such as traditional crafts, local cuisine, and community-led activities that support sustainability while protecting fragile sites from neglect or misuse. Among the sites identified for the initial phase of the project is Al-Subiya, which Dr Al-Hajri described as one of the most promising candidates due to its historical significance, links to the ancient Ubaid civilization, and its rich environmental and ecological diversity. He explained that the implementation process involves several stages, including evaluating candidate sites based on their geological, environmental, and cultural value; ensuring connectivity among them to form a cohesive geological network; and developing necessary infrastructure such as visitor trails, signage, and information centers. Certain areas would be open to visitors while others would be protected to maintain ecological balance. The plan also includes forming a multidisciplinary site management team comprising geologists, environmentalists, cultural experts, and tourism professionals, in addition to establishing monitoring systems to prevent environmental violations or degradation. Future phases will involve launching educational and training programs, organizing tourism-related activities, collaborating with international geoparks, and utilizing digital technologies to enhance site promotion and accessibility through media platforms. Dr Al-Hajri reiterated that the initiative reflects Kuwait's broader commitment to developing its tourism sector as a key pillar of the 'New Kuwait 2035' vision, which aims to diversify income sources and promote sustainable growth. He also noted Kuwait's readiness to host the 52nd meeting of the UN World Tourism Organization's Regional Commission for the Middle East next year, under the chairmanship of Minister of Information and Culture and Minister of State for Youth Affairs Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi. The UNESCO Global Geoparks designation, launched in 2015, is awarded to geographic areas with internationally significant geological heritage and managed under a holistic model integrating conservation, education, and sustainable development. The designation is valid for four years and subject to periodic reevaluation to ensure continued compliance with UNESCO standards.— KUNA
Arab Times
17-05-2025
- Science
- Arab Times
Kuwait has several sites fit for UNESCO Geoparks status: official
KUWAIT CITY, May 17: Dr. Mubarak Al-Hajri, Chairman of the Kuwait Society for Earth Sciences, affirmed that Kuwait possesses several significant geological sites that could be eligible for inclusion in the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network. In an interview with the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) on Saturday, Al-Hajri stated that geological parks are increasingly seen as integral to sustainable development strategies. They offer not only economic benefits but also contribute to tourism and the preservation of cultural heritage. He emphasized that integrating Kuwaiti sites into the UNESCO Geoparks Network is a strategic objective of the society, which seeks to preserve the country's geological heritage in collaboration with relevant government entities. Al-Hajri explained that geological parks are areas of unique and diverse geological significance managed under a framework that promotes both conservation and sustainable development. These parks serve as educational platforms, research hubs, and tourist attractions, fostering environmental awareness and supporting local economies through job creation and community engagement. 'These natural areas serve as open-air laboratories for students and researchers studying earth sciences, biodiversity, and climate history,' he said. 'They are also appealing destinations for nature enthusiasts and eco-tourists.' He noted that geological parks have proven successful in other countries, particularly in promoting disaster risk awareness and supporting biodiversity through the conservation of unique ecosystems. They also play a role in educating the public on the dangers of earthquakes and volcanic activity. Describing the society's vision, Al-Hajri said the initiative is a national project that requires close collaboration between the government and private sectors, non-profit organizations, and academic institutions. The parks would also showcase traditional crafts, local cuisine, and cultural activities, all aligned with sustainable development goals and aimed at protecting rare sites from neglect or misuse. He highlighted Al-Subiya as one of the primary candidates for the initial phase of the project. The area is rich in historical and environmental value, having once hosted the Ubaid civilization, and features diverse wildlife and ecosystems that support its potential as a designated geopark. Al-Hajri outlined a phased approach for the project's completion. This includes evaluating geological, environmental, and cultural significance; ensuring site connectivity to form an integrated geopark network; and developing essential infrastructure such as trails, signage, and visitor centers. He stressed the importance of identifying areas accessible to the public and those that must remain protected. The project will also require the establishment of a dedicated management team comprising specialists in geology, environmental science, culture, and tourism, as well as a monitoring system to safeguard against encroachments and damage. Development plans include creating educational programs, organizing tourism activities, and building international partnerships with other geoparks. Digital tools will also be used for promotion and visitor engagement. Al-Hajri said the initiative aligns with Kuwait's broader development goals under the "New Kuwait 2035" vision, which aims to diversify the national economy and promote sustainable growth. He noted that Kuwait's commitment to developing its tourism sector is further reflected in its upcoming hosting of the 52nd meeting of the UN Tourism Organization's Regional Commission for the Middle East, to be chaired by Minister of Information and Culture and Minister of State for Youth Affairs, Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi. UNESCO Global Geoparks are defined as unified geographical areas of international geological significance managed with a holistic approach that integrates conservation, education, and sustainable development. The designation, introduced in 2015, is valid for four years and subject to periodic review.
Saudi Gazette
05-05-2025
- Saudi Gazette
UNESCO delegation visits North Riyadh Geopark to celebrate its inclusion in Global Geoparks Network
Saudi Gazette report RIYADH — An official delegation from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), led by Assistant Director General for Natural Sciences Dr. Lidia Brito, conducted a field visit to the North Riyadh Geopark to mark its inclusion in the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network — the first achievement of its kind in the Middle East and the Arab world. Director of the Saudi Geopark Initiative Eng. Hussam Al-Turki, along with a select group of officials and experts joined the UNESCO delegation in the tour. The delegation explored the site's unique geolandmarks, reviewed development plans and administrative facilities, and visited key formations such as Abu Shaddad Cave — home to some of the region's most remarkable geological features — and the 'Edge of the World' escarpment, renowned for its breathtaking vistas and rock layers that chronicle geological epochs spanning millions of years. Dr. Brito expressed her delight at the North Riyadh Geopark's inclusion in the UNESCO Network, calling it a remarkable accomplishment that reflects the Kingdom's rich natural and cultural diversity. She emphasized the importance of leveraging this international recognition to advance Saudi Arabia's goals for ecotourism and educational outreach. The visit concluded with an interactive session in Ghamrah Village that showcased the site's landscapes and local heritage. Earlier, UNESCO officially welcomed both the North Riyadh Geopark and the Salma Geopark into its Global Geoparks Network, an initiative that underscores Saudi Arabia's commitment to preserving its geoheritage and promoting sustainable development. Saudi Arabia aspires to have 13 sites inscribed on the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network. The National Center for Vegetation Cover (NCVC) is working to develop and protect these sites as well as to promote environmental conservation, biodiversity, and nature-based tourism.
Indian Express
27-04-2025
- Business
- Indian Express
Daily subject-wise quiz : International Relations MCQs on reports published by the World Bank, axis of resistance and more (Week 107)
With reference to the Global Geoparks, consider the following statements: 1. They are single, unified geographical areas where sites and landscapes of international geological significance are managed with a holistic concept of protection, education and sustainable development. 2. They are managed by UNICEF. 3. Recently, North Korea recorded its historic first with the inclusion of its site in the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network. 4. India has six Global Geoparks sites. How many of the statements given above are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) Only three (d) All four Explanation — UNESCO has added 16 additional sites from 11 nations to its Global Geoparks Network, which celebrates its tenth anniversary this year. The new geoparks are in China, North Korea, Ecuador, Indonesia, Italy, Norway, South Korea, Saudi Arabia, Spain, the United Kingdom, and Vietnam. Hence, statement 2 is not correct. — North Korea achieved a historic first by including its site in the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network, while Saudi Arabia made its debut on the list with two newly recognised geoparks. Hence, statement 3 is correct. — With the new additions, the Network now has 229 locations in 50 nations, covering almost 855,000 square kilometres – an area roughly the size of Namibia. — UNESCO Global Geoparks are single, undivided geographical areas in which sites and landscapes of international geological significance are administered using a comprehensive approach to protection, education, and sustainable development. Hence, statement 1 is correct. — As of July 2024, India does not have any UNESCO Global Geoparks. While India has identified several geological heritage sites and is exploring the idea of developing geoparks, none have yet been recognised by UNESCO. Hence, statement 4 is not correct. Consider the following reports: 1. World Development Report 2. Global Financial Stability Report 3. Poverty and Shared Prosperity 4. World Economic Outlook Which of the reports given above are published by the World Bank? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 3 and 4 only (d) 1 and 3 only — The World Bank's latest India Country Economic Memorandum states that India must expedite reforms in order to achieve high income status by 2047, which would necessitate an average annual growth rate of 7.8 percent. The research advocated for a move from 'business as usual' to 'accelerated reforms' that would focus on productivity growth, revitalising and sustaining investment, creating quality jobs, and enhancing growth fundamentals in low-income states. — Some of the reports published by the World Bank are: (i) World Development Report: An annual flagship magazine with a special theme relating to global development. (ii) Global Economic Prospects (GEP): A semiannual report that examines worldwide economic trends, particularly in emerging and developing economies. (iv) Doing Business: A report that evaluates the regulatory environment for businesses in multiple nations. (v) Poverty and shared prosperity: Poverty reduction and inclusive growth are the primary objectives. — Global Financial Stability Report and World Economic Outlook are published by the International Monetary Fund (IMF). QUESTION 3 Which of the following countries has tested a hydrogen-based explosive that generates a white-hot firestorm lasting more than two seconds, 15 times longer than a standard TNT blast, without the use of nuclear material? (a) Russia (b) Japan (c) Ukraine — According to the South China Morning Post, Chinese researchers have tested a hydrogen-based explosive that produces a white-hot blaze lasting more than two seconds—15 times longer than a standard TNT blast— without the use of nuclear material. — According to a report published in the Journal of Projectiles, Rockets, Missiles, and Guidance, the 2-kilogram weapon detonated during a controlled field test and achieved temperatures of more than 1,000 degrees Celsius. The device was created by the 705 Research Institute of China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC), a major developer in underwater weapons technology. — The bomb's persistent heat effect is due to its usage of magnesium hydride, a silvery powder that serves as a solid-state hydrogen storage material. Magnesium hydride, originally developed to power fuel cells in off-grid areas, emits hydrogen gas when heated, allowing for an extended exothermic reaction when ignited. With reference to the Catholic population, consider the following statements: 1. In 1910, Europe was home to 65% of Catholics. 2. Presently, the maximum population of Catholics live in South and Central America. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Explanation — The College of Cardinals, which will assemble to elect a new head of the Catholic Church, may well choose someone from outside Europe, reflecting the shift in the worldwide basis of Catholicism (and Christianity in general) from Europe to the worldwide South. — According to the Annuarium Statisticum Ecclesiae 2023, published by the Vatican's Central Office of Church Statistics in March, the world's Catholic population will reach 1.4 billion in 2023. — More than 72% of the world's Catholics lived in South and Central America (41.2%), Africa (20%), and Asia (11%), combined. According to Vatican News, the Holy See 's official news source, 20.4% of the Catholic population lived in Europe, with 6.6% in North America. Hence, statement 2 is correct. — The situation was drastically different in the early twentieth century. According to Pew Research Centre data from 1910, Europe had 65% of Catholics and Latin America had about 24%. Hence, statement 1 is correct. The term 'axis of resistance' is often mentioned in the news. It is related to: (a) Canada (b) Russia (c) Myanmar — Saudi Arabia's Defence Minister, Prince Khalid bin Salman, met with Iran's Prime Minister and Chief of the Armed Forces, delivering a message from King Salman to Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. — Iran continues to pursue a regional order that is shaped without the United States. Tehran's 'Axis of Resistance' has typically been a modular weapon that has turned on US forces in the region to inflict (usually limited) harm. This gives Tehran a powerful negotiation piece to inflict human and material expenses on the US military, which is scattered across bases in Arab states (with the largest in Qatar). — The ' axis of resistance ' has its roots in the Iranian Revolution of 1979, which allowed extreme Shia Muslim clergy to rise to power. — Former US President George W Bush is reported to have inspired the coalition's name by using the words 'axis of evil' in his 2002 State of the Union speech, referring to Iran, Iraq, and North Korea. — The Axis includes not just Hamas, the Palestinian group, but also the Hezbollah movement in Lebanon, the Houthi movement in Yemen, several Shi'ite armed factions in Iraq, and Syria.
Asharq Al-Awsat
17-04-2025
- Asharq Al-Awsat
North Riyadh Geopark, Salma Geopark Join UNESCO's Global Geoparks List
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has officially designated the North Riyadh Geopark and Salma Geopark as part of its UNESCO Global Geoparks Network, marking a significant milestone for Saudi Arabia in preserving geoheritage and promoting sustainable development. The recognition follows UNESCO's stringent selection criteria, which emphasize the comprehensive management of geoparks. These criteria ensure a balance between conservation, education, and sustainable development while actively involving local communities. CEO of the National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification (NCVC) Khaled Al-Abdulkader praised the announcement as a testament to Saudi Arabia's dedication to protecting its natural and historical heritage, SPA reported. He attributed the achievement to the steadfast support of the Saudi leadership in enhancing environmental initiatives and promoting sustainability. He also underscored NCVC's efforts to preserve the country's unique natural landscapes, particularly its geological sites, in line with Vision 2030's sustainable development goals. Senior Director of the Saudi Geoparks Initiative Hussam Al-Turki emphasized that the inclusion of North Riyadh Geopark and Salma Geopark is a moment of national pride. He noted that this milestone not only reinforces Saudi Arabia's commitment to preserving its cultural and natural identity but also strengthens its role as a global leader in geoheritage conservation and sustainable development. With this designation, Saudi Arabia reaffirms its commitment to global environmental efforts. According to SPA, the newly recognized geoparks will serve as key destinations for local and international visitors, offering an opportunity to explore the Kingdom's geological wonders while fostering scientific and cultural awareness of geodiversity conservation. Beyond geotourism, geoparks play a vital role in sustainable natural resource management by connecting geotourism with local economic development, creating jobs, and fostering environmental education. This initiative represents a collaborative effort among government bodies, the private sector, and non-profit organizations, enhancing Saudi Arabia's contribution to both national and sustainable development goals.
