Maintaining international recognition is no small achievement, especially when it comes to protecting natural landscapes, geological heritage, and local communities. Ijen Geopark in East Java has successfully retained its UNESCO Global Geopark (UGGp) designation after receiving a Green Card in the latest revalidation process. The decision confirms that the geopark continues to meet UNESCO’s international standards, with particularly strong results in conservation, education, and community development.
The announcement was made during the 11th Session of the UNESCO Global Geoparks Council, held at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris, France, on November 3, 2026. All 12 members of the UGG Council unanimously approved the Green Card for Ijen Geopark, allowing the area to maintain its international designation.
According to Ijen Geopark General Manager Abdillah Baras, the decision was reached without any disagreement among council members. He described the outcome as an important achievement for everyone involved in managing and protecting the geopark.
“Alhamdulillah, all 12 council members agreed to award the Green Card. They unanimously declared that Ijen Geopark had passed the revalidation process. There was no debate,” Abdillah said.
One aspect that makes the achievement particularly notable is the relatively small number of improvement recommendations issued by UNESCO. Approximately 60 geoparks worldwide underwent revalidation in 2026, and Ijen Geopark was among those receiving the fewest recommendations compared with other participating sites.
“In fact, among the 60 geoparks worldwide that underwent revalidation this year, Ijen Geopark received the fewest recommendations compared with the others. We are all extremely grateful,” Abdillah added.
The result reflects the progress made by Ijen Geopark since its initial recognition in 2023. At that time, the area was officially designated as a UNESCO Global Geopark and received several recommendations to strengthen its management and development. The latest Green Card indicates that the management has made significant efforts to address those recommendations.
Before the council announced its decision, Ijen Geopark had undergone a comprehensive revalidation assessment in August 2026. UNESCO evaluators examined various aspects of the area’s management, starting with its distinctive geological features and landscape characteristics. The assessment also covered conservation initiatives, educational activities, governance systems, and the extent to which geopark management contributes to the economic and social well-being of surrounding communities.
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These factors are central to the UNESCO Global Geopark designation. The programme recognizes areas with important geological heritage while encouraging responsible management, public education, environmental protection, and sustainable development. Maintaining the designation therefore requires more than preserving natural attractions. It also involves ensuring that local communities benefit from the area’s development.
Abdillah explained that retaining the Green Card demonstrates Ijen Geopark’s ability to meet these international expectations. He highlighted the importance of maintaining a balance between protecting the natural environment, expanding educational opportunities, and supporting economic activities within surrounding communities.
“Successfully retaining this status demonstrates that Ijen Geopark’s management has met global standards in conservation, education, and community economic empowerment,” he explained.
The achievement also received recognition from Banyuwangi Regent Ipuk Fiestiandani, who expressed appreciation for everyone who contributed to maintaining Ijen Geopark’s international standing.
According to Ipuk, the Green Card is the result of cooperation among multiple stakeholders. These include government institutions, geopark management teams, local communities, business operators, academics, and residents living within the Ijen Geopark area. Their collective involvement has played an important role in supporting the area’s conservation and sustainable development efforts.
However, Ipuk stressed that retaining the UNESCO Global Geopark designation should not be viewed simply as an international achievement. The recognition also brings a long-term responsibility to protect the area’s natural resources and heritage. This includes its geological formations, biodiversity, natural landscapes, and cultural traditions, all of which contribute to Ijen’s distinctive identity.
“We must work together to preserve this UNESCO Global Geopark designation. Hopefully, Ijen Geopark will continue to thrive while providing benefits for the welfare of the local community,” Ipuk said.
With the Green Card secured, Ijen Geopark has demonstrated that its management and conservation efforts remain aligned with UNESCO’s global expectations. The recognition also highlights the importance of continued cooperation between public institutions, local businesses, academics, and communities in protecting the region.
Moving forward, maintaining this international status will require consistent attention to environmental conservation, geological protection, education, and community empowerment. For Ijen Geopark, the latest revalidation result is not simply a confirmation of past achievements. It is also an opportunity to strengthen its commitment to preserving its natural and cultural heritage while ensuring that the benefits reach the people who live around it.
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