Azores Geopark showcases Capelinhos monitoring in Finland

Azores UNESCO Global Geopark was represented at the 18th International Conference of the European Geoparks Network, held in Lappeenranta, Finland, from 16 to 18 September. Regional Secretary for the Environment and Climate Action Alonso Miguel joined the Azorean delegation at the event hosted by Saimaa UNESCO Global Geopark.

The conference brought together around 380 participants from 28 countries, including geopark managers, researchers and institutional representatives. Its programme focused on lifelong learning, innovation, sustainable development and cooperation—key themes for protecting and promoting UNESCO-recognised territories.

The Azores delivered seven oral presentations. One examined the monitoring of the Capelinhos Volcano landscape on Faial through combined LiDAR and photogrammetry. The work produces detailed three-dimensional models and helps track geomorphological change, providing evidence that can inform geoconservation, research and environmental planning.

The delegation also shared work on urban geodiversity routes, children's guides, environmental education and the TerrAzores documentary. The archipelago additionally joined the GeoFair alongside the Portuguese Geoparks Network. Its participation comes as Azores Geopark prepares for UNESCO revalidation in 2027, a process that matters for retaining the designation and strengthening sustainable stewardship of the geological heritage across all nine islands.