The 2025 Jiuhuashan Global Geopark Science Popularization Volunteer Training Camp Successfully Concluded

The 2025 Jiuhuashan  Global Geopark Science Popularization Volunteer Training Camp Successfully Concluded

From August 18 to 22, 2025, the “2025 Jiuhuashan  Global Geopark Science Popularization Volunteer Training Camp,” hosted by Jiuhuashan  Global Geopark and organized by 52Earth, was successfully held. The event aimed to rely on the geopark’s unique natural resources and rich cultural heritage, uphold respect for and protection of nature as a prerequisite, focus on ecological conservation, and promote harmonious coexistence between humans and nature. It comprehensively showcased the scientific value and ecological significance of the geopark, fulfilled its responsibilities in public education and science outreach, and advanced the sustained development and innovation of nature education.

On the opening day, Mr. Zhang Yinhu delivered a lecture titled “Entering Jiuhuashan,” introducing the development of the geopark through its application process. Professor Wu Weiping explained the formation of Jiuhuashan’s granite from the perspectives of mineralogy and geochemistry, allowing volunteers to appreciate the scientific charm behind geological phenomena. The volunteers then visited the Keqiao Memorial Archway to learn about the historical deeds of Ke Qiao, a Ming-dynasty general who resisted Japanese pirates and a disciple of Wang Yangming. In the evening, they arrived at Laotian Village, where they listened to stories of ancient village conservation and literary heritage, gaining an initial understanding of the integrated value of Jiuhuashan through the interplay of nature and culture.

During the training camp, volunteers visited the Huatai, Tiantai, and Phoenix Pine scenic areas, embarking on immersive geological and ecological explorations. Walking along the Huatai boardwalk toward Tiantai, they witnessed rolling seas of clouds, striking rock formations, and the clearly defined “peaks–hills–basins” geomorphology. Professor Wu Weiping guided participants in observing miarolitic granite and explained the processes of landform formation. Meanwhile, members of the ecology group identified plant species, listened to insect sounds, and recorded observations of flora and fauna, making the journey both lively and informative. In the afternoon, the volunteers visited the Phoenix Pine, appreciating the posture and symbolic significance of this thousand-year-old tree.

Under the guidance of Mr. Fei Yechao, the volunteers also explored ancient architectural complexes such as Huacheng Temple, Baisui Palace, and Dongya Chan Temple. Following the footsteps of Kim Qiaojue, Wang Yangming, and Li Bai, they delved into the profound integration of natural landscapes and cultural heritage. Stone steps, architectural carvings, and historical texts together revealed both the cultural depth and geological beauty of Jiuhuashan.

The volunteers were not only learners but also communicators. By producing videos, writing science articles, and conducting field documentation, they transformed Jiuhuashan’s geological and cultural stories into accessible public science content. At the closing ceremony, the volunteers expressed their commitment to continuing to represent Jiuhuashan from a youth perspective and to further spread the integrated value of “geology + culture.”

According to the geopark’s representatives, the training camp was not only a combination of knowledge and practice but also a meaningful convergence of public science outreach and youth development. In the future, the park will continue to establish a long-term volunteer training mechanism, promote the coordinated development of science education and nature conservation, and, through the power of volunteers, help more people understand the importance of harmonious coexistence between humans and nature. It will also continue exploring new pathways for integrating geology and culture, injecting youthful vitality into the sustainable development of Jiuhuashan  Global Geopark.