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Who We Are
What is a UNESCO Global Geopark?
UNESCO Global Geoparks are non-regulatory entities that recognise places with unique geology, landscapes, history, and culture and are managed with a focus on education, conservation, sustainable tourism, and community engagement.
The Niagara Peninsula Aspiring UNESCO Global Geopark is a Non-Profit Organisation working in partnership with local communities, tourism businesses, educational institutions, conservation organisations and government agencies across the Niagara Region. Together we represent a vibrant and passionate region-wide effort to manage and protect Niagara’s geoheritage while simultaneously developing well-managed tourism experiences that improve local livelihoods. We are currently in the process of evolving into a Canadian Federal Charitable Organisation with sustainable tourism development and education as its primary purpose.
How does Niagara Qualify for UNESCO Status?
We celebrate and protect internationally significant geological features including Niagara Falls, the Niagara Gorge, the Niagara Whirlpool, the Niagara Escarpment, the tremendous chert stores of the Onondaga Escarpment and our textbook outcrops of ancient Queenston Shale. We work with geology and heritage experts to uncover how these unique landforms have shaped our culture over time.
What is our Goal?
To foster and grow a strong collective pride in Niagara's geoheritage, in all its diverse Indigenous, cultural, historical, environmental, educational, industrial and agricultural manifestations, amongst all residents and all warmly welcomed visitors, built on the bedrock of UNESCO’s Sustainable Development Goals.
