The Third 100 IUGS Geological Heritage Sites have been announced

IUGS Geological Heritage Sites are recognised by the International Union of Geological Sciences (IUGS) for their outstanding scientific value as exceptional examples of geological features, processes and discoveries. They represent some of the world’s most significant places for understanding the Earth and its history. Located across the globe, they offer a surprising journey through the most important geological sites of the Earth.

The selection of the Third 100 builds on the success and global impact of the First 100, announced in Zumaia, Spain, in 2022, and the Second 100, announced during the 37th International Geological Congress (IGC 2024) in Busan, Republic of Korea. Since 2022, more than 1.000 experts from 90 countries and 20 international organisations have contributed to this programme by proposing sites, participating in the selection process and evaluating their scientific quality.

The Third 100 Geological Heritage Sites are distributed across 47 countries and include 11 sites in Africa, 22 in the Americas, 22 in the Asia-Pacific region, 6 in the Middle East, 34 in Europe, 2 in Antarctica and 3 in the High Seas.  Iconic geological sites like Mount Fuji (Japan), the Fiords of Norway, San Adreas fault (EEUU), Mount Aconcagua (Argentina) and the Chocolate Hills (Philippines) have been now included in this surprising list of geological wonders of the Earth.

Many of the “Third 100” are well protected in national parks, geoparks, and natural reserves, but many are not. Recognition and visibility of the “Third 100” IUGS Geological Heritage Sites can lead to their further appreciation, to their use as educational resources, and, most importantly, to their preservation.

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