Have you ever wondered what a Geopark is or what other Geoparks look like? Now is your chance to find out about Geoparks worldwide right here in the Bay!

On Tuesday 27 and Wednesday 28 September, between 2pm and 5pm, the Riviera International Conference Centre (RICC) will open its doors to the public for the GeoFair taking place as part of the 7th International Conference on UNESCO Global Geoparks.

The conference has over 700 delegates visiting from over 50 countries worldwide and there will be 44 exhibitors. Many of the countries such as China, Indonesia, South Korea, Finland and Denmark have stands showcasing their Geoparks. This a great opportunity to take a UNESCO Global Geopark trip around the world to experience different Geoparks and cultures, all in one place!

Other exciting stands include the Natural History Museum, the Geological Society and closer to home there are local stands including Churston Traditional Farm Shop.

The English Riviera UNESCO Global Geopark successfully bid for the 7th International Conference on Global Geoparks with the support of Torbay Council, TDA, Plymouth University, Exeter University, The Geological Society, British Geological Survey, English Geodiversity Forum, Natural England, Arts Council England, Natural History Museum and Flybe.

The conference takes place every two years and has previously been staged in China (2004), Northern Ireland (2006), Germany (2008), Malaysia (2010), Japan (2012) and Canada (2014.) 2016 will be the first occasion that the conference takes place in Great Britain.

There are seven Global Geoparks in the UK, out of a total UNESCO network of one hundred and twenty spread over 33 countries. A Geopark is concerned with conservation of natural heritage, sustainable economic development, promotion of science education and community engagement.

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