At present, there are 177 UNESCO Global Geoparks (UGGp) in 46 countries, including Ireland's 3 UGGps, in Europe. Frameworks to support these U​GGps include networks across different regional scales, and committees specialising in topics such as strategy, coordinating international programmes, and sustainability.

The smallest in the Global Network, the Copper Coast UGGp was established on its 19th century copper mining heritage, through the drive of 5 local communities. Its geological highlights include the coastal exposures of volcanic rocks that host the copper; red desert-type rocks and glacially sculpted landscape. The mining legacy has been brought to life through the refurbishment of the Tankardstown Engine House, and exhibitions and 3D animations in the Geopark Visitor Centre that was opened by An Taoiseach in 2013. It was one of the first Geoparks to join the European Geopark Network in 2001.

The Burren and Cliffs of Moher is Ireland's newest UGGp and boasts a strong network of eco-businesses living within its iconic landscape of karst limestone, caves and cliffs. Local folklore and food are promoted through Farm Heritage Tours and the Burren Food Trail. The area also has a unique flora and significant archaeological monuments. The Geopark promotes its geology and sensitive hydrogeological system through educational and outreach activities whilst pursuing strong practices in sustainable tourism.

Cuilcagh Lakelands Geopark, formerly Marble Arch Caves UGGp, became the world's first cross-border Global Geopark when it expanded from County Fermanagh into County Cavan in 2008. Aside from its spectacular show caves in Carboniferous limestone, the Geopark has a great geological diversity from the oldest (Dalradian) rocks in Northern Ireland, to impressive glacial erratics. The Geopark works closely with education providers to offer a wide range of educational services, and has helped bring together its communities through a successful Local Tour Guides programme. It was one of the first Geoparks to join the European Geopark Network (EGN)(EGN link) in 2001.

Having submitted the application to UNESCO at the end of November 2022, the Joyce Country and Western Lakes region is now an aspiring Geopark. Its geological highlights, set amongst the contrasting upland and lowland landscapes, includes the story of an ancient ocean (Iapetus Ocean) opening and closing, specifically the Grampian-Taconic Orogeny, a marine transgression, a marl lake, the spring complexes in the karst landscape, and Ireland's only fjord. The geological story is also part of an international one, which spans from North America, to Greenland, to northwest Ireland and to Scotland. The rich geodiversity supports the abundant biodiversity found here, and these are closely tied with the cultural heritage of the region. Numerous training courses have been offered to raise awareness of what a Geopark is, what it can mean for the people and businesses based in this region, and how businesses can improve their sustainability and marketing techniques, amongst others.

With a list of answers to Frequently Asked Questions, (FAQs,) this is the first place to come to learn more about a UNESCO Global Geopark designation.