Unesco Global Geoparks are single, unified geographical areas where sites and landscapes of international geological significance are managed with a holistic concept of protection, education and sustainable development.
A Unesco Global Geopark uses its geological heritage, in connection with all other aspects of the area's natural and cultural heritage.
Geoparks give local people a sense of pride in their region and strengthen their identification with the area.

Unesco Global Geopaks must have the following four elements:

a) a geological heritage of international value;
b) a management with a body having legal existence and with appropriated tools to address the entire area;
c) a promotion activity of the sustainable economic development and an adequate visibility of their project;
d) a cooperation activity through the Global and regional networks and a close relationship with the local people.

The Global Geoparks Network (GGN) is a legally constituted not-for-profit organisation with an annual membership fee. The GGN was founded in 2004 and is a dynamic network where members are committed to work togheter, exchange ideas of best pactise, and join in common projects to raise the quality standards of all products and practises of a Unesco Global Geopark.

The European Geoparks Network (EGN) is a regional network operating within the Old Continent.