Geopark is UNESCO’s action plan for protection and sustainable development of earth heritage. It works on conservation of unique geological landscapes, as well as the surrounding ecosystem and human landscapes. With the help of local residents, the conservation job is well carried out, and local economy is well developed.

UNESCO's definition of a Geopark is based on unique geoscience significance, rare natural attributes, high aesthetic appreciation value, and a certain scale of distribution range. Besides, blends in with other natural/ human landscapes to form a unique natural area. It provides people with high-scientific value of sightseeing, vacation, recreation, culture and entertainment. It is also a main protected area for geological heritage and ecological environment, as well as a base for geological research and popularization.

Reference: Shu-Ling, L. (2009). Penghu Marine Geopark-Culture and Tourism.

Global Geopark is the geopark where UNESCO experts conduct on-site investigation, organization of experts pass the review and UNESCO approve it.

The main purpose of establishing a geopark is to achieve environmental protection and enhance regional socioeconomic development. By public awareness of world heritage value, the public's understanding of the earth's and environmental carrying capacity is enhanced. Therefore, the public will use the earth resources more wisely, and achieve a balance between human and the earth.

The aim of geoparks is to "protect and promote the world heritage", "promote earth science and environmental education" and "promote the sustainable development of the local community, economy and culture through landscape tourism"; this concept earns more and more countries' recognition, and attracts quite a few countries to get involved in the setup of national and local geoparks.