The Sesia Val Grande Geopark is now an official UNESCO site!

On 17 November 2015, during the 38th UNESCO General Conference, the 195 Member States ratified the creation of a new official designation: UNESCO Global Geoparks. This reflects the recognition by governments worldwide of the importance of managing geological and landscape sites through a collaborative and modern approach.

This new label formalises a relationship with the Geoparks that was established in 2001. Since then, the Geoparks network has grown to include 120 sites worldwide. They have become an increasingly important tool for UNESCO in engaging Member States and their communities in the protection and promotion of geological heritage and the sustainable development of their territories. All 120 geoparks worldwide, under the auspices of UNESCO itself, have been recognised with immediate effect within the new priority programme, on a par with World Heritage Sites, Biosphere Reserves and Intangible Cultural Heritage. Consequently, the Sesia Val Grande is now also a UNESCO Global Geopark.

It is worth noting that the Sesia Val Grande Geopark, recognised as part of the global network in September 2013, encompasses the territory of 90 municipalities across four different provinces and stretches from Lake Maggiore to Monte Rosa, covering an area with unique geological features that have profoundly shaped the local culture. It was precisely this close link between the territory and its culture that proved decisive in the inspectors’ positive assessment in the summer of 2013. This unique bond between culture and territory must remain the guiding principle behind the activities of the ‘new’ UNESCO Global Geopark.

This marks a new beginning for the geopark, which, in light of its new UNESCO designation, has joined the global elite of cultural excellence; this should serve as an incentive to do even more for the development of our extraordinary regions. To achieve this designation, there were lengthy discussions amongst geoparks worldwide and with UNESCO, but the approach of grassroots growth and work on the ground has been fully incorporated into the new organisational model. Periodic on-the-ground assessments and re-evaluations will continue, spurring local authorities, communities and regions to work together to overcome divisions and self-centredness, rather than simply resting on their laurels following the UNESCO recognition.

This prestigious accolade, which recognises the tremendous effort made in recent years to establish and develop the geopark, will serve as a valuable tool for encouraging and promoting our entire region. A recognised and highly regarded global showcase which, thanks to the UNESCO global network, will help raise awareness of the outstanding features of the Upper Piedmont region. Moreover, the true founding purpose of geoparks, ever since their creation, has been the sustainable development of rural areas, which, without adequate measures for their protection and enhancement, would risk being irreparably compromised. Another valuable and important step in the right direction has been taken; it will be up to the whole region to continue this exciting journey with ever-greater energy and passion.