UK Committee for UNESCO Global Geoparks holds annual meeting in Arran Geopark

June 13th 2025

In early June, the UK Committee for UNESCO Global Geoparks (UKUGG) held its annual meeting in the recently designated Arran Geopark. Over the course of the two day meeting, representatives from the UK's 10 UNESCO Global Geoparks were joined by colleagues from the British Geological Survey (BGS) and other interested parties. The UK National Commission for UNESCO was represented by our Accreditation, Policy and Operations Manager, Charlie Kennedy.

Several key matters were discussed including upcoming global events such as the 11th International Conference on UNESCO Global Geoparks in Kütralkura UNESCO Global Geopark (Chile) in September, and the UKUGG Committee's contribution to the global UNESCO Global Geopark Network Strategic Plan.

Each of the UK Geoparks present provided an update on their activities, and representatives of 'Aspiring' Geoparks and interested areas were given the opportunity to summarise their progress towards fully inscribed status. Charlie provided an update of UKNC's activities to support the UK Global Geopark network, including our 'Local to Global' and 'Climate Change and UNESCO Heritage' programmes.

Whilst on Arran, participants went on a site visit to some of the islands most important geological sites, and also took the opportunity to taste some of the island's famous liquid delicacy at Lagg Distillery.

New Chair of the UK Committee for UNESCO Global Geoparks

The meeting also saw the passing of the Chairmanship of the Committee from Dr Kirstin Lemon, GSNI Information and Infrastructure Team Leader at the British Geological Survey (BGS) to Chris Woodley-Stewart, Director of the North Pennines National Landscape and UNESCO Global Geopark.

On behalf of all at UKNC and the UK Global Geopark community we would to thank Kirstin for her work as Chair, and wish Chris alll the best in the role.

More information on the UK's UNESCO Global Geoparks