At our AGM in April, two Geopark Ambassadors, Nick Rushby and Sarah Newman, introduced the proposed Cross-Channel UNESCO Geopark and explained why it matters locally.
UNESCO Global Geoparks are single, unified geographical areas where sites and landscapes of international geological significance are managed around concepts of protection, education and sustainable development. There are currently 10 geoparks in the UK with UNESCO accreditation – if all goes according to plan this summer, our local geopark is set to be the 11th.
The aspiring Cross-Channel geopark will be the first-of-its-kind, cross-border project linking the chalk landscapes of the Kent Downs in England and the Parc Naturel Regional des Caps et Marais d’Opale in France. It celebrates 450 million years of geological history.
The unifying feature is chalk: a geological layer formed around 50 million years ago when much of the region lay beneath a warm, shallow sea. Over millions of years, microscopic marine organisms settled on the seabed, gradually forming the thick chalk deposits visible today in landscapes such as the white cliffs.
The River Darent is an integral feature of the chalk landscape in Kent. By raising awareness of the region’s unique natural assets – particularly fragile environments like chalk streams – The Geopark can help strengthen protection efforts.
The speakers encouraged local involvement, presenting the geopark as a shared community asset. Residents can participate as ambassadors, support initiatives, and help promote the area’s heritage. Ultimately, the success of the geopark depends on public engagement, fostering both pride in the landscape and a commitment to its long-term care.
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