Hanoi: Dak Lak province is implementing a project to seek UNESCO Global Geopark recognition for Phu Yen Geopark, aiming to preserve its rich geological, natural, cultural, and historical heritage while leveraging these values to promote sustainable tourism, improve local livelihoods, and showcase the eastern part of the province. Established in 2024, Phu Yen Geopark covers nearly 2,000 square kilometers of land and about 1,000 square kilometers of sea across 22 communes and wards in eastern Dak Lak. With nearly 189 kilometers of coastline, offshore islands, rocky cliffs, beaches, lagoons, and bays, the area boasts geological, landscape, cultural, and biodiversity values. It is also home to ethnic groups, including the Kinh, Hoa, Cham, E De, and Ba Na.

According to Vietnam News Agency, the initiative to seek UNESCO recognition is part of a broader strategy to enhance the global profile of Phu Yen Geopark. The proposed designation aims to attract international attention to its unique attributes, fostering a tourism model that respects and conserves its natural and cultural assets. The local government hopes that achieving this status will not only boost tourism but also provide educational opportunities and promote research activities in the region.

The pursuit of UNESCO Global Geopark status involves a rigorous evaluation process, ensuring that the geopark meets specific criteria related to conservation, education, and sustainable development. The recognition could serve as a significant milestone for Dak Lak, aligning with efforts to balance economic growth with environmental stewardship. If successful, Phu Yen Geopark would join a network of globally recognized sites committed to sustainable development and cultural exchange.