Introduction. Lanzarote, a Unique Geopark

The island of Lanzarote is a place that represents brittle insular areas with high environmental values, where a coexistence between preservation and the controlled and responsible use of the local heritage has been achieved. Since April 2015, Lanzarote and the group of islands and islets part of the Chinijo Islands, have been part of the European Geopark Network. Such recognition of the islands as a Geopark, has been an essential tool to strengthen local strategies and value the local geological and geomorphological heritage. In addition, it has also been key when it comes to continuing to contribute to the traditional and sustainable use of the islands, favouring coexistence models. In these past three years, the set of actions promoted or supported from the Geopark, have logically unfolded in order to lead to a plan of action that is adapted, participative, efficient when it comes to resources, and that has acted as a unifying agent. The basis of the sustainable development strategy that is the foundation of this unique Geopark is set on these.