Irish Geoparks Forum Showcases Mourne Gullion Strangford’s Natural Capital Work
Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark recently took part in the Annual Irish UNESCO Global Geoparks Forum 2025, held at Hotel Doolin in County Clare. The event brought together all five UNESCO Global Geoparks on the island of Ireland to share ideas on how best to care for special landscapes while supporting local communities and economies.
Representing Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark, Darren Rice delivered a presentation titled “Natural Capital Unpackaged – Unlocking the Value of Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark’s Natural Assets”. His talk explained how the Geopark is working to understand and measure the benefits nature provides in the Mournes, Ring of Gullion and Strangford area, from clean water and wildlife to opportunities for recreation and tourism, so that these assets can be protected and enhanced for future generations.
Fellow Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark team member Gavin Grant hosted an information stand throughout the forum, where delegates and members of the public could learn more about the geopark, pick up materials, and hear about current projects, wildlife disturbance and community and youth initiatives. The forum also offered Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark the chance to learn how other Irish geoparks are using natural capital accounting, with speakers and discussions showing how this approach can guide better decisions for both nature and people.
By taking part in the forum, Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark continues to strengthen links with partner geoparks and other stakeholders across the island and to raise the profile of the region’s outstanding landscapes, geology and heritage. The lessons shared at the event could help shape future work in the Geopark, ensuring that its rich natural and cultural heritage is valued, understood and looked after for the long term.
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