Timeline and History of Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark: A Journey Through Volcanic Landscapes

Hong Kong, known for its vibrant cityscape, also boasts a rich geological heritage, particularly through the Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark. Established in 2009, this geopark is a testament to the region's unique volcanic landscapes and diverse geological formations. In this blog post, we will explore the timeline and history of the Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark, focusing on its volcanic rock regions.

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Early Beginnings: The Concept of a Geopark

The idea of establishing a geopark in Hong Kong began with initiatives from local organizations such as the Hong Kong Geopark Association. In 2008, the Chief Executive of Hong Kong, Donald Tsang, accepted the proposal to develop a geopark, aiming to promote Hong Kong's unique geological features as tourist attractions.

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Establishment and Recognition

2009: The Hong Kong Geopark was officially established and recognized as a National Geopark by the Ministry of Land and Resources of China. The park was inaugurated on November 3, 2009, with its visitor center opening on December 18, 2009.

2011: After two years of preparation, the Hong Kong National Geopark was accepted as a member of the Global Geoparks Network. It was renamed the Hong Kong Global Geopark of China, becoming China's 26th global geopark.

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Volcanic Rock Regions: High Island Formation

One of the most iconic features of the Hong Kong Geopark is the High Island Formation, located in the Sai Kung area. This formation is a relic of a massive supervolcano that erupted approximately 140 million years ago during the Early Cretaceous period. The eruption produced a vast amount of volcanic ash, resulting in the formation of hexagonal rock columns that are characteristic of the region.

The High Island Formation is composed of felsic rhyolitic rocks with a high silica content, distinguishing it from other volcanic rock formations worldwide. The columns are exposed along the coastlines and islands of Sai Kung, offering breathtaking views of steep sea cliffs and diverse coastal erosion landforms.

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Conservation Efforts

The Hong Kong Geopark is protected under the Country Parks Ordinance and the Marine Parks Ordinance. These laws ensure that the geopark's unique geological features are preserved for future generations. The geopark is managed by the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD), which oversees its conservation, management, and visitor services.

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International Recognition and Rebranding

2015: The geopark underwent its first four-year evaluation by UNESCO and successfully maintained its status as a global geopark. Following the establishment of the new UNESCO Global Geoparks Programme, the park was renamed the Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark on November 17, 2015.

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Conclusion

The Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark is a testament to the region's rich geological heritage, particularly its volcanic landscapes. The High Island Formation, with its unique hexagonal rock columns, is a highlight of the geopark, attracting both scientists and tourists alike. Through its conservation efforts and international recognition, the geopark continues to promote geo-education and sustainable tourism, making it a valuable asset for Hong Kong.

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References:

IUGS Geoheritage Site (2022): Early Cretaceous Rhyolitic Columnar Rock Formation of Hong Kong.

AFCD (2021): Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark.

CEDD (2021): High Island Formation.