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Iceland Has a NEW UNESCO Site - Katla Geopark!
UNESCO recently added nine geoparks out of 16 applicants to its Global Network of National Geoparks, including Katla Geopark in the region surrounding Mýrdalsjökull glacier in south Iceland, which covers the volcano Katla.The Katla region also includes the infamous Eyjafjallajökull volcano which upset air traffic around the globe when it erupted last year.
The region is said to be characterized by landscapes that have been sculpted by glaciers and volcanic activity which impacts human habitation.
All the areas recognized by UNESCO as geoparks have unique importance in the field of education and science and are also considered to have unique natural beauty.
The network is intended to strengthen cooperation between geoparks and across different sectors of society for equitable and sustainable utilization of natural resources and protection of the world’s geological heritage.
A Geopark -what is it?
A Geopark is a nationally protected area containing a number of geological heritage sites of particular importance, rarity or aesthetic appeal. These Earth heritage sites are part of an integrated concept of protection, education and sustainable development. A Geopark achieves its goals through a three-pronged approach: conservation, education and geotourism.
Iceland has three other UNESCO Sites - Thingvellir National Park, Surtsey Island and the newly appointed Reykjavik City of Literature
See the Geopark UNESCO list here.
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