This document provides an overview of the measures that the UK UNESCO Global Geoparks are taking in the fight against climate change.
There are currently eight UNESCO Global Geoparks in the UK, all of whom are at risk from the impacts of climate change. These risks include damage to the natural environment, damage to infrastructure, risks to health and well-being, risks to business and industry, and global impacts that will have an effect on the UK.
Whilst the impact of climate change on the UK will be great there are a range of climate change mitigation and adaptation measures that are being taken across the UK UNESCO Global Geoparks.
For climate change mitigation there are examples of enhancing natural carbon sinks, more sustainable use of lands and forests, responsible consumption of natural resources, adopting renewable energy sources and developing more sustainable transport systems. For climate change adaptation there are examples of nature-based solutions, engineered solutions, encouraging behavioural change, establishing good environmental governance and gathering of research and data.
Finally, when identifying measures to address the impacts of climate change it is essential that this is done in alignment with the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals. By looking at these holistically, the UK UNESCO Global Geoparks will have a real opportunity to not just help to mitigate and adapt to the impacts of climate change, but to make a real difference to those that live, work and visit their territories
