On September 16, 2022, Sanqingshan UNESCO Global Geopark staged themed events for the 2022 National Science Popularization Day and the Science & Innovation Inspire Future Dreams National Youth Science Festival at Sanqingshan Geological Museum.

Thirty local primary school students were invited to join an immersive study tour. Inside the museum, they explored diversified ecosystems and the mysteries of our planet, and were encouraged to carry out hands-on practice with rational scientific thinking and inquisitive insight. Guided by science instructors, the youngsters appreciated the stunning landscape hailed as “Home of Clouds and Mist, Gallery of Pines and Rock Formations”. They learned about Sanqingshan’s geological evolution, admired the world-class granite landforms along the Western Pacific margin, and explored abundant biodiversity and profound local culture, fostering affection for nature and natural heritage. Tailored to primary pupils’ cognitive level, instructors delivered an engaging lecture with vivid narration, pictures and video materials covering Earth’s layered structure as well as the distribution, formation and classification of volcanoes. Students took part in a simulated volcanic eruption experiment to witness volcanic activities firsthand. The interactive session helped children understand planetary secrets and cultivated their spirit of scientific inquiry and teamwork.

The event enabled young participants to get up close with the geopark. At the closing, each student received a gift pack of popular science books. The activity aims to motivate continuous science learning, improve practical skills, exploratory competence and innovative thinking, broaden horizons and deepen their love for hometown and the natural environment.