NORTHWEST China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region has officially opened its first global geopark, turning an abandoned mine in Keketuohai into a sustainable tourism destination that will improve local living standards. Located south of the Altay Mountains and at the base of the Irtysh River, the park is the first global geopark in Xinjiang and covers more than 2,300 square kilometers. Visitors will be able to enjoy breathtaking views including the Irtysh Grand Canyon, a huge mine crater, lakes, mountains, a waterfall, fossils and rivers. UNESCO announced eight new global geoparks, including Keketuohai, last May. Keketuohai was once a celebrated mine area in China, and rare metals were mined there for more than half a century. Due to resource depletion, mining was suspended in 2002, and Keketuohai was on its way to becoming a ghost town. The Central and local governments have since invested more than 2 billion yuan (US$289 million) to restore environment, improve infrastructure and promote tourism. In 2005, Keketuohai was approved as a national geopark. The park has numerous rare metal deposits and mine sites, unique Altay Mountain granite landforms, earthquake relics and the beautiful scenery of the Irtysh River. It is now a comprehensive natural park integrating geological research, the popularization of science, sightseeing and leisure with great scientific value, distinctive local characteristics and attractive natural scenery. (China Daily) | 