Tracing the Past to Sustain a Peaceful Future

The role of Science, Culture and Tradition

Tracing the Past to Sustain a Peaceful Future – the Role of Science, Culture, and Tradition is at the core of Global Geoparks Network, where geological heritage intertwines with the biodiversity and local communities inhabiting these landscapes.

A great proposed theme

Tracing the Past emphasizes the importance of understanding the history and evolution of the Earth through Geology, Archaeology, and Ecology. By understanding how rocks form, ancient animals once lived, ancient settlements, and cultural landmarks, we gain insight into past climates, landscapes, and civilizations. UNESCO Global Geoparks serve as open-air museums, where this history can be studied at different timescales, preserved, and shared. The “tracing” aspect underscores a proactive approach, urging us to continuously learn from the past, to face the future chalanges related to climate changes, and natural disasters

Sustain a Peaceful Future refers to the importance of accepting that sustainability is a critical goal. This is especially important in the context of environmental and social challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, cultural homogenization, but also for wars and regional conflicts. Understanding the past provides lessons on resilience, adaptability, and sustainable use of resources, which are essential for managing these challenges. Geoparks, by promoting the convervation of geological heritage and geotourism, directly contribute to territorial sustainability, showing how maintaining natural and cultural heritage can support local economies and foster environmental stewardship. However, the peace concept here used is not just the absence of conflicts, but also the presence of mutual understanding and respect between citizens with different ideas and beliefs, which can be sustained through insights gained from historical and cultural experiences, and UGGP can and should develop an important role.

The Role of Science, Culture and Tradition is a three dimension concept. This concept is at the foundations of what characterizes the UGGP’s mission.

1.

In a first pillar, we have the scientific research and education in geoparks, deepening our understanding of natural processes and human impacts on the environment. Science has the power to foster peace by addressing global challenges such climate change, health and environmental crises, and poverty. Through scientific advancements, humanity can eliminate sources of suffering that often lead to conflict. By prioritizing peaceful applications of technology and innovation, science contributes to a stable, and prosperous future where resources are used to uplift rather than divide communities.

2.

In a second pillar, Culture has a unique place, because Geoparks are not just about rocks and landscapes; they encompass the cultural narratives that shape how communities view and interact with their landscapes and environments. This pilar plays a vital role in promoting peacefulness by fostering empathy, tolerance, and dialogue among different groups. Cultural heritage, including language, art, and customs, adds layers of meaning to these places, connecting local stories to the larger narrative of humanity’s relationship with the planet Earth.

3.

Lastly, the third pillar is Tradition. Traditional knowledge, often passed down through generations, includes practices for sustainable agriculture, natural medicine, and resource management. By integrating these traditions with scientific knowledge, Geoparks can develop unique approaches to conservation and sustainable development that are respectful of local identities and wisdom. Maintaining these traditions while integrating modern perspectives ensures a balanced approach to achieving long-term stability.

In Brief

The theme of the 12th International Conference on UNESCO Global Geoparks invites participants to explore how the lessons from our planet’s history, coupled with science, cultural heritage, and traditional knowledge, can inform a sustainable and peaceful path forward. It aligns well with GGN’s mission of promoting cultural diversity, environmental responsibility, and education. Participants are encouraged to share research, case studies, and innovative ideas on how Geoparks can serve as models for sustainability and peace, by drawing on the rich tapestry of history, science, and local culture.

In essence, the theme is a call to action: to look back with curiosity, honour heritage with respect, and to move forward with purpose for a sustainable future.

Oeste Geopark: A Brief History

From left to right:

David Rodrigues | Designer

Inês Cabau | Communication

Miguel Reis Silva | Executive Coordinator of Oeste UGGp

Inês Marques | Geologist

Bruno Pereira | Geologist

The journey to establish the Oeste Geopark began in 2017, with five municipalities (Lourinhã, Torres Vedras, Peniche, Bombarral, Óbidos) and scientific partners (GEAL, SHN, UNL) initiating the UNESCO Global Geopark candidacy process.

In 2018, the AGEO – Associação Geoparque Oeste was founded to manage the project, with Lubélia Gonçalves as interim Executive Coordinator. By 2019, Miguel Reis Silva became Executive Coordinator and Professor Nuno Pimentel the Scientific Coordinator, leading the formation of the technical team.

In 2022, Oeste Geopark submitted its application to join UNESCO’s Global Geoparks Network and in 2024 it became part of that same network.

 Oeste Geopark Website

Portuguese UNESCO Ambassador

Jose Moraes Cabral

President of the Board of Portuguese National Tourism Office

Carlos Abade

President of CCDR Centro

Isabel Damasceno Costa

President of Oeste CIM

Pedro Folgado

President of AGEO

João Serra

Scientific Coordinator of Oeste UGGp

Nuno Pimentel

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Our Mission

To contribute to the preservation, conservation, valorization, dissemination, and dynamism of natural and cultural heritage, with special emphasis on geological heritage. This involves committing to the dissemination of scientific knowledge, promoting education, tourism, and the sustainable development of the populations and territory of the Oeste Geopark.

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Our Vision

To be an aggregating institution that promotes and enhances the heritage of the Oeste Geopark territory through the participation of its key stakeholders, thereby becoming a reference in its area of action.