Kazakhstan inaugurates its first geopark
In the heart of the Ulytau region, Kazakhstan's first geopark has debuted, leaving the regional authorities ardent to connect it with the prestigious UNESCO geoparks network. According to our report, the site boasts the majestic Akzhara mountains, geologically speaking, they're around 200 million years young 1.
One of the passionately driven leaders, Bakytzhan Khozhametov, envisions that these special-status sites would magnify the tourist influx 1. He states, reflecting on the significance of 'geo' as a prefix meaning 'Earth', geoparks are devised to reveal the Earth's geological timeline. Their appeal stems from their open-ended nature, making them prime sites for drawing tourists and launching the tourism sphere 1.
At present, the geopark's employees remain stationed at the Zhezkazgan museum, eagerly awaiting sponsorship from leading firms and entrepreneurs 1.
Daniar Arinbayev, the head of the regional Department of Entrepreneurship and Industry, emphasizes that park development revolves around preserving historical and cultural landmarks, nurturing the tourist industry 1. This allows local businesses the opportunity to spearhead fresh investment initiatives, construct hotels, and devise recreational areas.
2021 saw over 30,000 tourists from around the region and abroad visiting the Ulytau region. The inception of the geopark is expected to multiply this figure significantly, estimated by industry specialists 1. This surge is attributed to investments in the tourist cluster doubling compared to the previous year.
Aset suggests we need streets and infrastructure to usher in a flood of tourists [2]. Murych shares concerns about the region's roads and the prospect of attracting visitors before infrastructure is in place.
For a hassle-free user experience, we've implemented an automatic geolocation feature for comment authors [3].
Uryunimgina clammers for a similar park in Mangystau, voicing disapproval of local businessmen dismantling natural stone balls in the Torish grove [2]. Timur agrees, acknowledging destruction was underway.
[1] "Ulytau region opened geopark in Kazakhstan". 24kz.info, 2021. [2] Ulytau Tourism Park Discussion. [3] Terms of Service.
Geoparks Network Insights:
To become a member of the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network, the Ulytau region's geopark would need to comply with a specific process. This encompasses identifying and preserving unique geological features, preparing a meticulous application, and adhering to UNESCO's criteria for membership.
Joining the network can yield substantial benefits for tourism and economic development. These include increased tourist traffic, economic growth, sustainable development, educational opportunities, and community engagement. [Enrichment Data: Steps to Join the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network and Benefits for Tourism and Economic Development]
What could be the potential impact of joining the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network for the Ulytau region's geopark in terms of environmental-science, lifestyle, travel, and the local economy? The geopark could attract more tourists, stimulate economic growth, foster educational opportunities, and encourage sustainable development, thus enhancing the regional lifestyle and travel experiences.
