Awards Working Group
Following the decision of the ProGEO Executive Committee at its meeting on 8 December 2025, we are pleased to announce the establishment of a new ProGEO Thematic Working Group to explore the development, implementation and long-term management of a geoconservation certification award scheme.
The proposed awards scheme aims to recognise and increase engagement with geodiversity, geoheritage and geoconservation within society.
During its first two meetings the WG confirmed it purpose and the aims of the awards scheme and defined our target audience as:
Target audience
Phase 1:
All organisations whose activities intersect with geodiversity, geoheritage or geoconservation.
Some examples include:
· Organisations who manage geosites,
· Educational and research institutes,
· Geoscience societies & community groups
· Conservation organisations & charities,
· Government and public bodies,
· NGOs and private companies.
Phase 2:
Awards for individuals and time-limited projects.
The Thematic Working Group will consider all aspects of the scheme, including:
- Confirming its aims and objectives.
- Defining the target audience (individuals, organisations, educational institutions, land managers, policy makers, etc.).
- Identifying incentives for participation.
- Designing the structure and levels of certification.
- Selecting an appropriate name.
- Establishing administrative arrangements.
Invitation to Participate:
We warmly invite other ProGEO members to join this initiative. If you are interested in becoming a member of the Thematic Working Group, please send an email expressing your interest to the group leader Rachel Wignall,
email: rachel.wignall@nature.scot