What We Do – Mourne Gullion Strangford UNESCO Global Geopark
Our core activities dictate what we do on a day to day basis. However, we frequently apply for additional funding to carry out specific project work. Here is a flavour of what we work on.
What We Do
Mourne Gullion Strangford UNESCO Global Geopark brings together landscapes, people and heritage across south-east Northern Ireland in a shared commitment to education, conservation, community and sustainable development.
As a UNESCO Global Geopark, we use the internationally important geology of the Mourne Mountains, the Ring of Gullion and the landscapes of Strangford and Lecale as a foundation for learning, understanding and stewardship. Through partnership working, creative engagement and long-term planning, the Geopark supports opportunities for people of all ages to connect with place and be part of a thriving and responsible future.
What does a UNESCO Global Geopark do?
A UNESCO Global Geopark is a place where internationally important geological heritage is used as a foundation for education, conservation and sustainable development, led by local communities and organisations. It is not a statutory designation that introduces new planning controls. Instead, it is a recognition of good practice in how people and landscapes are cared for together.
In the Mourne Gullion Strangford UNESCO Global Geopark, this work focuses on helping people understand the deep geological processes that have shaped the area, supporting learning at all ages, and encouraging long-term stewardship of landscapes where people live and work.
The Geopark’s role includes supporting education and learning, promoting conservation and care for landscapes and biodiversity, working closely with communities to celebrate local heritage and skills, and encouraging sustainable development through responsible enjoyment of the area. All of this activity is guided by partnership working and by the international standards of the UNESCO Global Geoparks programme.
How we support learners and young people
We provide a range of opportunities for people of all ages to learn about landscapes, deep time, nature and culture:
- Schools and educational resources – curriculum-linked materials, fieldwork activities and teacher support
- Youth engagement programmes – initiatives that encourage young people to explore geology, climate, heritage and career pathways
- Community learning events – workshops, talks, guided walks and family activities that build connection with place
Through these programmes, learning is active, local and grounded in real landscapes.
How we work with partners and communities
Partnership lies at the heart of the Geopark. We work with:
- Local authorities and public bodies
- Community and voluntary groups
- Conservation organisations and research institutions
- Tourism and business networks
- Educational and youth organisations
Our approach is collaborative and inclusive, valuing lived experience as much as scientific knowledge. By working together, we achieve outcomes that benefit communities, landscapes and future generations.
Sustainable development and responsible enjoyment
We encourage a balanced approach to landscape use that supports:
- sustainable tourism and visitor experiences
- local enterprises linked to nature and heritage
- wellbeing through outdoor learning and recreation
- respect for habitats, species and cultural sites
Through clear guidance, interpretation and engagement, visitors and residents alike are encouraged to enjoy the Geopark responsibly and leave a positive impact.
How the Geopark is guided
The work of the Mourne Gullion Strangford UNESCO Global Geopark is underpinned by a strategic framework that includes:
- agreed management and action plans
- regular monitoring and review
- governance through partnership structures
- a commitment to UNESCO programme criteria
This framework ensures that the Geopark delivers measurable outcomes for education, conservation, development and community empowerment.ritage. Every visit is a chance to discover why this landscape is part of the UNESCO Global Geopark family.