Science, Discovery, Tech and Environment · 30 April 2026

United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) adds 12 new Global Geoparks

Exam-focused facts from the 30 April 2026 current affairs briefing.

Key facts

  • The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) added 12 new sites to its Global Geoparks network.
  • The total number of UNESCO Global Geoparks has reached 241 across 51 countries, covering more than 8.82 lakh sq km worldwide.
  • The new geoparks in China are Changshan and Mt. Siguniang.
  • The new geoparks in Malaysia are Lenggong and Sarawak Delta.
  • Other newly designated sites include Terres d'Hérault (France), Nisyros (Greece), Joyce Country and Western Lakes (Ireland), and Mine-Akiyoshidai Karst Plateau (Japan).
  • Additional new sites include Algarvensis (Portugal), Toratau (Russia), Dahar (Tunisia), and Manantiales Serranos (Uruguay).