Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Conservation (MoNREC) has taken a major step towards designating Mount Popa as a world geopark. With its historical significance, ancient iron furnaces in Bagan era, rare biodiversity, and fossilized jaws of Gomphotheres, the area has caught the attention of authorities who plan to implement 15 geosites as a first measure.
This initiative aligns with the Global Geoparks Programme, launched by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) in 2001, which currently boasts 195 global geoparks across 48 countries.
Before Mount Popa can be nominated as a global geopark, it must first be designated as a national geopark. This process involves a comprehensive exploration of the area by a combined team of relevant ministries and organisations.
