UNESCO Geoparks Quiz: 15 MCQs with Explanations
Below is a set of 15 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) designed to test knowledge of the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network, its geological significance, cultural integration, and sustainable development initiatives. Each question is crafted for intermediate learners, with four answer options, a clearly identified correct answer, and a concise explanation to enhance understanding. All questions are presented in bold for clarity.
Question 1: What is the primary focus of the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network?
A) Promoting industrial development in geologically rich areas
B) Conserving geological heritage and promoting sustainable tourism
C) Exploiting natural resources for economic growth
D) Limiting access to geologically significant sites
Correct Answer: B) Conserving geological heritage and promoting sustainable tourism
Explanation: The UNESCO Global Geoparks Network aims to conserve geological heritage, such as rock formations and fossil sites, while promoting sustainable tourism and environmental education. This focus supports local communities and preserves cultural traditions, as seen in geoparks like Katla in Iceland. Option B is accurate, as it aligns with UNESCO’s mission to balance conservation with sustainable development. Other options misrepresent the network’s goals. Learn more at UNESCO’s official site.
Question 2: In which year was the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network established?
A) 2005
B) 2015
C) 1995
D) 2025
Correct Answer: B) 2015
Explanation: The UNESCO Global Geoparks Network was established in 2015, marking its 10th anniversary in 2025. This initiative recognizes territories for their geological heritage and promotes conservation and education. Option B is correct, as it aligns with the timeline provided. Other options are incorrect, as they do not match the network’s founding year. For more details, visit UNESCO’s Geoparks page.
Question 3: Which country designated its first UNESCO Global Geopark in 2025?
A) China
B) Democratic People’s Republic of Korea
C) Italy
D) Ecuador
Correct Answer: B) Democratic People’s Republic of Korea
Explanation: The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea designated its first UNESCO Global Geopark, Mt Paektu, in 2025, contributing to the protection of a shared mountain range with China. This milestone highlights UNESCO’s efforts to expand the network globally. Option B is correct, while other countries listed already had geoparks or are not noted for first designations in 2025.
Question 4: What geological feature is a highlight of the Kanbula UNESCO Global Geopark in China?
A) Dinosaur fossil deposits
B) Maixiu volcanoes
C) Deep sinkholes
D) Coral reef systems
Correct Answer: B) Maixiu volcanoes
Explanation: Kanbula UNESCO Global Geopark, located on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, is renowned for its well-preserved Maixiu volcanoes, which showcase complex geological processes. These features, along with the Yellow River, define the geopark’s significance. Option B is correct, while other options refer to features of different geoparks, such as Yunyang (fossils) or North Riyadh (coral reefs).
Question 5: How does the Yunyang UNESCO Global Geopark in China support local cultural traditions?
A) By promoting industrial mining
B) By teaching Tujia traditions in schools
C) By restricting access to cultural sites
D) By replacing traditions with modern practices
Correct Answer: B) By teaching Tujia traditions in schools
Explanation: Yunyang UNESCO Global Geopark supports the Tujia ethnic group’s traditions, such as root
carving and brocade weaving, by incorporating them into school curricula and community events like the Tujia Daughters’ Meeting. This preserves cultural heritage while fostering sustainable development. Option B is correct, as it reflects the geopark’s efforts. Other options are inaccurate or contrary to its mission.
Question 6: What significant cultural practice is preserved in the Mt Paektu UNESCO Global Geopark?
A) Thang-ga mural painting
B) “Arirang” folk song
C) Pandanus leaf weaving
D) Gaelic language revival
Correct Answer: B) “Arirang” folk song
Explanation: Mt Paektu UNESCO Global Geopark in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea preserves cultural traditions like the “Arirang” folk song, reflecting the region’s spiritual and historical significance. Option B is correct, as it is explicitly mentioned. Other options relate to different geoparks, such as Kanbula (Thang-ga) or Arran (Gaelic).
Question 7: Which geopark in Ecuador is known for its biodiversity and Kichwa cultural practices?
A) Tungurahua Volcano
B) Napo Sumaco
C) Costa Quebrada
D) Meratus
Correct Answer: B) Napo Sumaco
Explanation: Napo Sumaco UNESCO Global Geopark, located in Ecuador’s Amazon Basin, is celebrated for its biodiversity (over 6,000 plant species) and Kichwa cultural practices, such as minga and turkana, which promote community-led conservation. Option B is correct, while other geoparks have different focuses or locations.
Question 8: What makes Tungurahua Volcano UNESCO Global Geopark a model for resilience?
A) Its dinosaur fossil discoveries
B) Its recovery from volcanic eruptions
C) Its ancient pilgrimage routes
D) Its mangrove restoration efforts
Correct Answer: B) Its recovery from volcanic eruptions
Explanation: Tungurahua Volcano UNESCO Global Geopark, particularly the town of Baños de Agua Santa, is recognized for its resilience after enduring volcanic eruptions from 1999 to 2016. This has led to a thriving adventure tourism industry. Option B is correct, while other options pertain to different geoparks’ features.
Question 9: What is a key geological feature of the Kebumen UNESCO Global Geopark in Indonesia?
A) Volcanic caldera lakes
B) Karangsambung oceanic rocks
C) Limestone caves
D) Radial columnar joints
Correct Answer: B) Karangsambung oceanic rocks
Explanation: Kebumen UNESCO Global Geopark is known for the Karangsambung site, a natural laboratory of oceanic and continental margin rocks that illustrate plate tectonic theory. Option B is correct, as it highlights this key feature. Other options refer to features in different geoparks, like Mt Paektu (caldera lakes) or Gyeongbuk Donghaean (columnar joints).
Question 10: How does the Meratus UNESCO Global Geopark in Indonesia contribute to biodiversity conservation?
A) By reviving ancient grape varieties
B) By restoring mangrove ecosystems
C) By grazing Old Norse sheep
D) By protecting desert flora
Correct Answer: B) By restoring mangrove ecosystems
Explanation: Meratus UNESCO Global Geopark has restored mangrove ecosystems, crucial for the survival of the Bekantan long-nosed monkey, leading to its population recovery. Option B is correct, as it aligns with the geopark’s biodiversity efforts. Other options relate to different geoparks’ initiatives.
Question 11: What paleontological discovery is a highlight of the MurGEopark in Italy?
A) Dinosaur fossil wall
B) Neanderthal skeleton in speleothems
C) Trilobite fossils
D) Mammal migration fossils
Correct Answer: B) Neanderthal skeleton in speleothems
Explanation: MurGEopark UNESCO Global Geopark in Italy is renowned for a preserved Neanderthal skeleton encased in speleothems, alongside a major dinosaur track site. Option B is correct, as it is a key paleontological feature. Other options refer to fossils in different geoparks, like Yunyang (dinosaur fossils) or Lang Son (trilobites).
Question 12: What traditional practice is revived in The Fjord Coast UNESCO Global Geopark in Norway?
A) Thang-ga mural painting
B) Old Norse sheep grazing
C) Pandanus leaf weaving
D) Gaelic language revival
Correct Answer: B) Old Norse sheep grazing
Explanation: The Fjord Coast UNESCO Global Geopark revives the 5,000-year-old tradition of Old Norse sheep grazing and controlled heather burning to maintain coastal heathlands. Option B is correct, as it reflects this initiative. Other options pertain to different geoparks’ cultural practices.
Question 13: What is a notable feature of the Gyeongbuk Donghaean UNESCO Global Geopark in South Korea?
A) Yangnam Columnar Joints
B) Maixiu volcanoes
C) Al-Hutaymah Crater
D) Tabletop Mountains
Correct Answer: A) Yangnam Columnar Joints
Explanation: Gyeongbuk Donghaean UNESCO Global Geopark is celebrated for the Yangnam Columnar Joints, striking rock formations created by cooling volcanic lava. These have inspired local pride and products like “Yangnam Columnar Joint Bread.” Option A is correct, while other options refer to features in different geoparks.
Question 14: What cultural heritage site is located in the North Riyadh UNESCO Global Geopark in Saudi Arabia?
A) Longwusi Monastery
B) Thadiq village oasis
C) Seokguram Grotto
D) Las Caras Tourist Complex
Correct Answer: B) Thadiq village oasis
Explanation: North Riyadh UNESCO Global Geopark features the Thadiq village oasis, a 370-year-old tribal settlement that embodies the region’s connection to its natural environment. Option B is correct, as it is a key cultural site. Other options relate to different geoparks’ heritage sites.
Question 15: What agricultural product is supported by the mineral-rich soils of Lang Son UNESCO Global Geopark in Viet Nam?
A) Garlic
B) Star anise
C) Dates
D) Coratina olives
Correct Answer: B) Star anise
Explanation: Lang Son UNESCO Global Geopark’s mineral-rich soils support crops like star anise, a key agricultural product. Option B is correct, as it is explicitly mentioned. Other options refer to products from different geoparks, such as Danyang (garlic) or North Riyadh (dates).
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