Anticipating UNESCO Global Geopark Certification 2024
Sharing the rich geological and cultural layers of Ontario's Niagara Peninsula
Building on the fascinating geologic foundation of over 500 million years, with world renowned Niagara Falls as its beacon, the Niagara Geopark takes its cues from what Indigenous peoples have been doing here for thousands of years; meeting, trading, sharing stories, harvesting food and establishing strong family and cultural ties.
At its core, the Niagara Peninsula Geopark is a sustainable tourism-oriented model for our Region that can help us reconnect with the planet upon which our very survival depends. The idea being that the more we learn about our place in nature, starting with the rocks and soil beneath our feet, the better able we will be to understand our past, and positively influence our future.
We are working to promote a sense of pride in our region, to strengthen our identification with our home, and to promote a better understanding of Niagara’s geological, natural, archaeological, cultural and industrial heritage. In this way, we will support and stimulate the creation of innovative local enterprises, small businesses, sustainable tourism activities, and new jobs by generating new sources of revenue.
How do we work with Indigenous Communities? We nurture long-term relationships with Indigenous communities that are respectful, mutually beneficial, and offer growth and unity through the guiding principles of the UNESCO Sustainability Goals and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. How do we work with Local Businesses? Our communities feel a deep connection to their landscape, history and culture and have a strong desire to manage this in a sustainable way for the benefit of all. This is shown through the Niagara Geopark Network which includes private businesses, educational institutions, community groups and municipal leaders across the region. Our members are committed to a Sustainability Pledge based on the UNESCO Sustainable Development Goals and focuses on social inclusion, responsible resource management, providing quality educational experiences and promoting overall health and well-being. Our Objectives? Tread Lightly To work hard to better understand our part in nature, and how to tread lightly on the earth upon which our long-term survival depends.
Grow Sustainable Tourism
To grow sustainable tourism experiences across Niagara by leveraging key partnerships with Destination Marketing Organizations, businesses, governments, educational institutions, nature clubs, and sports groups.
Respect our Geoheritage
To respect our collective geological, cultural, Indigenous, industrial, and agricultural heritage, as we proudly build fun and interactive educational programs for all ages and demographics. Build Partnerships
To encourage partnerships between local entities focused on prioritizing the community and the environment. We actively take steps to preserve the land that sustains us all, including refraining from the unsustainable trade involving geological and other materials. |
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