Rinjani-Lombok Geopark Successfully Retains UNESCO Global Geopark Status

KOMPAS.com - The Rinjani-Lombok Geopark in West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) has successfully retained its status as a UNESCO Global Geopark after receiving its second Green Card. The international revalidation process took place at UNESCO headquarters in Paris, France, with the official announcement on Tuesday (28/4/2026). “This second green card is a global recognition of the collective hard work of all stakeholders in West Nusa Tenggara,” said Qwadru, as quoted from Antara on Tuesday (28/4/2026). Qwadru stated that this success proves that the governance of the Rinjani-Lombok Geopark continues to meet global standards. The main focus includes aspects of conservation and education, along with economic empowerment for local communities. The revalidation process was conducted thoroughly by professional assessors. The assessor team not only viewed the natural beauty of Rinjani but also evaluated the tangible impacts on the surrounding residents. The welfare of communities in the Mount Rinjani ring area is a key point. All elements must provide benefits that can be directly felt by the residents. Disaster mitigation aspects are crucial because Lombok is located in an area prone to tectonic earthquakes. Therefore, geological knowledge is essential for the safety of tourists and local residents. Meanwhile, the Indonesian Ambassador to France, Mohamad Oemar, emphasised the important position of the Rinjani-Lombok Geopark. For him, Rinjani is not just a place for tourism but also a vital natural laboratory for science.