Beijing, 28 March 2024 (TDI): The United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) announced on Wednesday the inclusion of the Mount Changbaishan Geopark and five other Chinese geo-parks into the prestigious UNESCO Global Geoparks network.
According to UNESCO’s Executive Board, 18 sites have been endorsed. These cities expand the Global Geoparks network to 213 sites across 48 countries. The Paris-based UN body press release states that.
Chinese Mount Changbaishan’s Volcanic Legacy
Moreover, located in the southeast of Jilin Province, Mount Changbaishan UNESCO Global Geopark is like an open-air classroom for volcanism. Additionally, it has dramatic landforms and diverse rock types that document significant multiphase eruptions.
The’millennium eruption’, took place around 1,000 years ago. It is one of the largest volcanic eruptions in modern history. In addition to this, it has left a lasting impact, creating special pyroclastic accumulations of international significance.
Mount Changbaishan is one of the best-preserved composite volcanoes from the past several million years. Furthermore, at its summit, you will find the highest and largest crater lake in northeast Asia. It is Tianchi Lake, which offers breathtaking views.
Most recently, the geopark has been working on a comprehensive restoration of the freshwater ecosystem at the source of the Songhuajiang River.
In addition to Mount Changbaishan, the other recognized Chinese geo-parks include Enshi Grand Canyon-Tenglongdong Cave Geopark in Hubei Province, Linxia Geopark in Gansu Province, Longyan Geopark in Fujian Province, Wugongshan Geopark in Jiangxi Province, and Xingyi Geopark in Guizhou Province.
Moreover, Linxia is a historic stop on the Ancient Silk Road. It holds a rich heritage dating back over 5,000 years. Gansu Province is renowned as the birthplace of Hua’er folk music, a UNESCO-listed Intangible Cultural Heritage. It reflects China’s social evolution through its traditional songs.
These parks not only contribute to geological research and education but also attract tourists with their breathtaking natural beauty and geological significance.
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