The development and construction of Global Geoparks primarily emphasize the following 16 aspects:

(1) Protection of Geological Heritage

UNESCO Global Geoparks adhere to the concept of sustainable development, value the heritage of Mother Earth, and recognize the necessity of protecting this legacy. Representative geological sites within the geoparks are safeguarded by local, regional, or national laws and management bodies to ensure necessary monitoring and maintenance. UNESCO Global Geoparks continuously explore, practice, and refine methods for protecting geological heritage.

(2) Climate change

UNESCO Global Geoparks preserve records of past climate changes, serve as advocates for current climate change issues, and actively adopt best practices in utilizing renewable energy while implementing the highest standards of "green tourism."

These geoparks function as open-air museums showcasing the impacts of past and present climate change. They educate visitors on how climate change affects our environment, raise awareness about its potential local consequences, and equip communities with knowledge to mitigate and adapt to its potential effects.

(3) Education for Sustainable Development

UNESCO Global Geoparks conduct and operate educational activities for people of all ages to enhance understanding of geological heritage and its connections with nature, culture, and other aspects of intangible cultural heritage. They offer educational programs for schools or organize specialized activities for children through "summer camps," "kids' clubs," or special "fun fossil activities." Additionally, they provide both formal and informal education for adults and retirees.

(4) Sustainable Tourism

UNESCO Global Geoparks develop facilities and organize activities to help visitors engage with and understand geological heritage, while promoting sustainable tourism within the geopark areas. These geoparks position themselves as sustainable tourism destinations, offering diverse guided field excursions, nature-based tours, authentic experiences, and local cuisine.

(5) Biodiversity Protection

UNESCO Global Geoparks are areas that study specific interactions between the lithosphere and biosphere, providing a holistic concept for understanding the role of geological environments in the evolution of the biosphere. The activities and programs of Geoparks are crucial for enhancing awareness of the relationship between geological environments and modern ecosystems, as well as for their rational management within an integrated framework.

(6) Employment Promotion

UNESCO Global Geoparks serve as platforms for developing, nurturing, and promoting local cottage industries and handicrafts. They contribute to the sustainable development of regions with significant geological heritage by creating new enterprises and providing employment opportunities for local youth.

(7) Capacity Building Activities

UNESCO Global Geoparks provide training courses and capacity-building activities for local stakeholders and unemployed youth, enabling them to subsequently support the geopark's activities and operations.

(8) Women's Empowerment %% UNESCO Global Geoparks place great emphasis on women's empowerment, whether through targeted educational programs or the development of women's cooperatives. In some Global Geoparks, women's cooperatives also provide opportunities for women to earn additional income within their regions and on their own terms. %% (9) Sustainable Use of Natural Resources

UNESCO Global Geoparks place great emphasis on women's empowerment, whether through targeted education programs or the development of women's cooperatives. In some Global Geoparks, women's cooperatives also provide opportunities for women to earn additional income within their own regions and under their own terms.

(9) Rational Utilization of Natural Resources

The history of humanity and civilization is built upon the exploitation and utilization of Earth's crust resources. The development of modern society is constrained by the consequences of natural resource depletion. UNESCO Global Geoparks promote the sustainable use of natural resources and its necessity to the public, while advocating for respect towards the integrity of the environment and landscapes.

(10) Scientific Research

UNESCO Global Geoparks are special areas where geological heritage or geodiversity holds international significance. As such, geoparks serve as ideal locations for implementing scientific research outcomes in fields such as geological conservation, tourism, and local sustainable development.

(11) Celebrating Cultural Heritage

In many countries, iconic geological sites are regarded as sacred places. Since ancient times, these holy sites have attracted countless visitors from around the world with their mystical allure. Myths, legends, and contemporary records alike tell of extraordinary experiences people have had in these places. Different sacred sites possess powers to heal the body, enlighten the mind, and inspire the soul. Temples and monasteries have been built in these locations to house faith. Within UNESCO Global Geoparks, there are also important sacred sites that highlight the intricate connections between specific landscapes and mythology, archaeology, and history. At the heart of UNESCO Global Geoparks lies a commitment to people, dedicated to uncovering and celebrating the profound bond between human communities and the Earth. The Earth shapes our identity: it determines our agricultural practices, influences the materials and techniques we use to build our homes, and even permeates our myths, legends, and folk traditions.

(12) Reducing geological disaster risks.

UNESCO Global Geoparks raise awareness of geological hazards such as volcanoes, earthquakes, and tsunamis. Through educational activities for local residents and visitors, many Global Geoparks provide information on the sources of geological hazards and ways to mitigate their impacts. These efforts build essential capacities and contribute to creating more resilient communities equipped with the knowledge and skills to effectively respond to potential geological hazards.

(13) Sustainable Development

UNESCO Global Geoparks engage with local communities, respecting their traditional ways of life while empowering them and upholding their human rights and dignity. These geoparks play an active role in regional economic development by enhancing the overall image associated with geological heritage and promoting sustainable tourism. Through their impact on residents' living conditions and environment, geoparks directly influence their regions. Their goal is to encourage residents to rediscover the value of regional heritage and actively participate in the broader cultural revitalization of the area.

(14) Local and Indigenous Knowledge

UNESCO Global Geoparks actively involve local and indigenous peoples, safeguarding and celebrating their cultures. By including these communities, geoparks recognize their significance and the deep connection they share with their land. Integrating local and indigenous knowledge, practices, and management systems alongside scientific knowledge into regional planning and management is one of the standards for UNESCO Global Geoparks.

(15) Network Collaboration

Network cooperation is one of the core principles of Geoparks. It significantly contributes to the success of the Geopark movement and plays a valuable role in facilitating experience sharing, quality management, joint initiatives and project formation, as well as capacity building.

(16) Monitoring and Evaluation

To ensure the sustained high quality of UNESCO Global Geoparks, including the management standards of each geopark, the status of every Global Geopark must undergo a comprehensive revalidation assessment every four years.