IUGS_Recognizes_Three_Chinese_Sites_as_World_Geological_Heritage

IUGS Recognizes Three Chinese Sites as World Geological Heritage

Three remarkable geological sites in China have been recognized as world-class geological heritage by the International Union of Geological Sciences (IUGS), highlighting the nation’s rich and diverse geological history.

The newly listed sites encompass invaluable fossil records and unique landforms: the Permian vegetation of the Wuda Fossil Site in Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, the Dashanpu Middle Jurassic Dinosaur Fossils Site in Sichuan Province, and the Guilin Karst in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region.

Located in north China’s Inner Mongolia, the Wuda Fossil Site preserves exceptional Permian period vegetation fossils, offering a window into Earth’s ancient forests from approximately 298 million years ago. In southwest China’s Sichuan Province, the Dashanpu site is renowned for its Middle Jurassic dinosaur fossils, uncovering species that roamed the Earth around 170 million years ago. The Guilin Karst, in south China’s Guangxi region, is famed for its stunning karst landscapes, characterized by dramatic limestone formations shaped over millions of years.

Zhang Jianping, vice chair of the IUGS International Commission on Geoheritage and a professor at the China University of Geosciences, Beijing, announced the recognition at a press conference held by the Nanjing Institute of Geology and Paleontology under the Chinese Academy of Sciences on Tuesday. He emphasized that these sites not only hold immense scientific value but also contribute to our understanding of Earth’s geological history.

“The inclusion of these sites in the IUGS Geological Heritage Sites recognizes their global significance,” Zhang said. “They are invaluable treasures that help us trace the evolutionary history of life and the planet.”

The recognition of these sites is expected to boost geological tourism and foster greater appreciation for natural history among the public. It also underscores China’s commitment to preserving its geological heritage and promoting scientific research.

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