A Geopark is a contiguous geographical area containing internationally significant geological sites. Geoparks tell the story of our planet through the geology, living nature, landscapes, and cultural heritage of their regions. Fostering the region’s natural and cultural values, strengthening the local identity, and promoting business activities compliant with sustainable development are the key objectives of Geoparks. A Geopark may apply for UNESCO Global Geopark status. The worldwide network of UNESCO Global Geoparks currently lists 213 Geoparks in 48 countries. All five of Finland’s Geoparks have been awarded official UGGp status.

The Finnish National Geoparks Committee was established in March 2013 in line with the UNESCO recommendations. The committee provides guidance and support for Finnish areas applying for Geopark status, serves as an expert to the Finnish National Commission for UNESCO during the application process, and promotes communication between Finnish Geoparks, their stakeholders, and international networks. Furthermore, the committee elects a representative to the International Geopark Advisory Committee annually. The committee consists of representatives of the Finnish UNESCO Global Geoparks and the Ministry of the Environment, the Geological Survey of Finland, Metsähallitus (the Finnish forestry agency), Business Finland, and the Finnish Academy of Science and Letters. The meetings may also be monitored by a representative of the Finnish National Commission for UNESCO. The executive directors of the Finnish UNESCO Global Geopark areas and the Finnish National Commission for UNESCO can provide further information on the committee’s work upon request.