Transnational Cooperation
The Transnational Cooperation Project “EMPOWERMENT, PROMOTION AND NETWORKING OF UNESCO GEOPARKS” concerns the enhancing and promotion of the cooperating Geoparks – recognized by UNESCO – their nature and landscape, as natural heritage of national and global importance, the implementation of actions for the protection of the environment in the areas of the geoparks and within the zones close to them, as well as their further networking with similar networks – local bodies, through: electronic interconnection (websites, databases, etc.), participation to exhibitions, conferences, etc.
UNESCO Global Geoparks are unified, integrated geographical areas where sites and landscapes of international geological importance have succeeded in creating levers for strategic development through a holistic approach to protection, education, and sustainable development. Using a bottom-up approach, they combine conservation with sustainable development, while the participation of local communities is becoming increasingly popular.
The ecological value of the areas within the Geoparks in terms of plant diversity is enormous, as is the fauna, which includes species of birds, reptiles, amphibians, etc., which are part of the world’s biological heritage. reptiles, amphibians, etc., which are part of the world’s biological heritage.
The recognition of these areas by UNESCO demonstrates the richness of Greece’s geological heritage and the special value of the geological, natural, and cultural heritage of Greek Geoparks on a global scale.
Implementation
The transnational cooperation ” EMPOWERMENT, PROMOTION AND NETWORKING OF UNESCO GEOPARKS” is implemented by the Development Companies / Local Action Groups CLLD/LEADER, representing 4 UNESCO Geoparks in Greece, as follows:
ACHAIA - DEVELOPMENT AGENCY S.A.
(Coordinator)
Chelmos - Vouraikos Geopark
EPIRUS DEVELOPMENT S.A. AOTA
Vikos-Aoos Geopark
DEVELOPMENT OF LASITHI S.A. OTA
Sitia Geopark
AKOMM - PSILORITIS S.A. OTA
Psiloritis Geopark
(Natural Park)
Main objectives
- To enhance and empower the participating regions, their nature and landscape as natural heritage of national and global importance.
- Upgrading ecotourism in the partner regions through the integrated promotion of biodiversity and geodiversity, as well as sites of archaeological, religious, historical, and cultural interest.
- To develop and strengthen the local economy by enhancing existing tourism infrastructure.
- Designing and promoting a special label for local agrotourism products and services in the partner regions, based on quality standards that meet global market requirements
- Strengthening networking between UNESCO Geoparks.
The objectives of the “EMPOWERMENT, PROMOTING, AND NETWORKING UNESCO GEOPARKS” partnership are achieved through the implementation of joint actions, as well as individual local actions, by each Development Company/ Local Action Group through funding from CLLD/LEADER Local Programs, highlighting and strengthening the identity and unique characteristics of each Region.
Geoparks and Thematic Geotrails
Explore the thematic geotrails of the Geoparks and discover unique landscapes, geological phenomena, and cultural monuments through routes that combine nature and tradition.