Connecting geoparks’ local communities through Earth Heritage Education in four continents (4GEON)

Geoparks are like libraries of the Earth! Geology is fun - and that's the basic idea behind the 4GEON IGCP project. Under the title "Four continents connected through playful Earth heritage education", we bring together representatives of geoparks from four continents who are passionate about bringing geological secrets to the general public. 

The local and indigenous communities of the geoparks involved are facing growing pressure on the exploitation of their land and of their local geoheritage, and they are gradually implementing and evaluating novel concepts of playful geoeducation.

IGCP project 751 engages the general public through a user-friendly geoportal that demonstrates how geology relates to the everyday life of local people – accurately, enjoyably and in their own language. Special care is given to youth, the future of the society, especially in vulnerable indigenous communities. Playful courses combining digital and outdoor activities (geobus excursions, trails augmented with QR codes, etc.) let young people understand and cherish stones, rocks and wildlife around them, connect with their traditions and heritage, creatively and accurately identify risks and challenges their environment is facing and propose meaningful solutions.

Geoambassadors will be selected each year among the participants, to participate in a global geo-get-together with geopark experts and representatives. They will discuss their experience, views, and plans with participants from around the world. Scientific evaluation and case studies published in scientific journals will also raise awareness of the proposed concepts within the professional community.

This project was developed with the generous financial support of the Jeju Province Development Co. (JPDC).