The Mount Changbaishan Geopark, along with five other Chinese geoparks, (recognize) as a Global Geopark by UNESCO on March 57. The number of Global Geoparks in China has increased to 47, making the country with the most such geoparks in the world.
"China is rich in geological heritage, with a broad distribution and a complete range of geological types," Ren Fang, expert with the Chinese Academy of Geological Sciences, told People's Daily. "It is one of the first countries worldwide to propose and establish national geoparks."
China set up national-level geoparks and began applying for Global Geopark status in 2003 in response to UNESCO's initiative (establish) the Global Geoparks Network (GGN) . In 2004, Beijing witnessed the First International Conference on Geoparks, 17 European geoparks and eight Chinese geoparks joined the GGN. The network aims to promote best (practice) and high standards for the conservation of geological heritage and the promotion of (sustain) regional economic development.
The Mount Changbaishan Geopark, newly (add) to the GGN network, is situated in Jilin Province and is home the "millennium eruption," a massive volcanic event that occurred roughly1, 000 years ago. Renowned for its Quaternary volcanic landforms, the park, spanning 2, 723 square km, (feature) giant compound volcanic cones, ancient eruptions and their deposits, and the splendid Tianchi lake. With over 380 craters, it boasts the highest number, greatest density, and widest distribution of volcanic rock types in East Asia.
