UNESCO Chair Celebrates IGD

Earlier in 2025, the University of Minho in Portugal was awarded a new UNESCO Chair in Geodiversity and Geoconservation, in recognition of the pioneering work undertaken at the university in research, training, and promoting geodiversity.

Coordinated by Professor José Brilha, the Chair is a global focal point for advancing the study of geodiversity, and training the next generation of practitioners.

Prof Brilha issued this statement in celebration of International Geodiversity Day 2025:

"The new UNESCO Chair on Geodiversity and Geoconservation is celebrating International Geodiversity Day for the first time! The planet's many interconnected stories, which are inextricably linked to the fantastic story of human civilisation, emphasise the role of Earth's geodiversity in shaping cultures, landscapes and a sustainable future for generations to come."

The new UNESCO Chair involves 12 international partners, including ten universities—notably the University of São Paulo, the Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte (Brazil), Púnguè University (Mozambique), the University of Tasmania (Australia), and institutions from countries such as Morocco, Colombia, Chile, Uruguay, Cameroon, and Botswana. Also participating are ProGEO – the International Association for the Conservation of Geological Heritage and the WCPA-IUCN Geological Heritage Specialist Group.