October 6 2026 marks the 5th International Geodiversity Day. During this period, the Administration of Zhijindong Cave Geopark organised diverse popular‑science activities in observance of the occasion.

At the Geology Square, the geopark set up the exhibition “Glimpses of Geological Diversity: From Karst to Global Wonders”. It systematically presented cave landscapes, cloud‑table landforms, Danxia landforms, sandstone peak‑forest landforms, glacial geological relics and other science‑popularisation content. Site interpreters conducted science outreach, drawing large audiences of visitors who paused to listen and view the displays. Through professional narration, the epic geological evolution over hundreds of millions of years was brought to life.

In parallel, a volunteer study‑tour mentor group consisting of over ten PhD and master’s degree holders delivered guided activities at Zhijindong Cave, helping visitors gain insights into geological culture and the geopark. By sharing knowledge on Zhijindong Cave’s cave marvels, canyon vistas, geodiversity and karst evolutionary history, the team appealed to the public to attach importance to geodiversity and biodiversity, and contribute to the conservation and sustainable use of geological resources.

As background information, on 23 November 2021, the 41st General Conference of UNESCO adopted a resolution designating 6 October every year as International Geodiversity Day. The observance aims to equip humanity with solutions for sustainable development through geoscience education, addressing growing environmental degradation via responsible resource extraction, disaster‑risk reduction, climate‑change mitigation and curbing biodiversity loss.

International Geodiversity Day was proposed by the International Union of Geological Sciences (IUGS) and supported by 108 scientific organisations, including 91 national bodies from 41 countries plus 17 international organisations such as the IUCN and European Geosciences Union. Its purpose is to raise global awareness of how non‑living components of nature underpin the wellbeing and prosperity of all life on Earth.

International Geodiversity Day unites people, communities, organisations and nations worldwide. It showcases solutions for human sustainable development derived from geoscience education, fosters public understanding of Earth’s diversity and dynamic processes, and jointly advances high‑quality development.