Geopark Shetland – a UNESCO Global Geopark

UNESCO Global Geoparks are places where outstanding geological heritage is used to support sustainable development, through conservation, education, interpretation and nature tourism.

By raising awareness of the importance of an area’s geological heritage and its impact on modern life, a UNESCO Global Geopark demonstrates how geological heritage links to an area's natural and cultural heritage, helping generate a sense of identity and pride.

Shetland has been a Geopark since 2009 and the initiative became a full programme of UNESCO (the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation) in 2015. Geopark Shetland's UNESCO status was confirmed with a "green card" for another four years starting in 2024.

The geopark network also raises awareness of the need to use resources sustainably and explores ways to mitigate the impact of climate change.

Driven by a desire to empower local communities, UNESCO Global Geoparks bring organisations together, working in partnership to explore new opportunities inspired by an area's geological and natural heritage and the way that influences local culture.

Geopark Shetland is coordinated by the Geopark Shetland Working Group (GSWG). The lead partner is the Shetland Amenity Trust, which manages the geopark and works closely with other organisations to coordinate the various geological activities and liaise with the European Geoparks Network.

The GSWG includes representatives from several partners including Shetland Islands Council, Scottish Natural Heritage, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, Promote Shetland, and various community groups including Shetland Tourism Association.

Geopark Shetland is working with the Shetland community on several interpretive projects and educational activities to:

• Conserve Shetland’s rich geological heritage and demonstrate its links with natural and cultural heritage.
• Raise awareness and increase understanding of Shetland’s geological heritage.
• Enhance the image of Shetland and promote sustainable development linked to geological heritage and Geotourism.
• Implement Scotland's Geodiversity Charter.

There are over 200 UNESCO Global Geoparks (UGGs) in 48 countries, though a number of new Geoparks join the network each year. Collectively, the UGGs make up the Global Geoparks Network (GGN).

The European Geoparks Network (EGN) comprises 94 European UGGs from 28 countries, with 9 in the United Kingdom alone. Geopark Shetland is one of only two in Scotland.

Members of the EGN and GGN share ideas, experiences and skills and work closely with other members on joint projects. The emphasis on long-term sustainable development with community involvement is an essential part of what it means to be a Geopark.

Along with a range of key stakeholders, the UK Geoparks make up the UK Committee for UNESCO Global Geoparks, which is responsible for coordinating Geoparks at a national level, including the submission of UK candidates for UNESCO Global Geopark status.