The network was set up to conserve Earth's geological heritage, as well as to promote the sustainable research and development by the concerned communities.

Geoparks were conceived as "single, unified geographical areas where sites and landscapes of international geological significance are managed with a holistic concept of protection, education and sustainable development."

Managed under the body's Ecological and Earth Sciences Division, the GGN seeks the promotion and conservation of the planet's geological heritage, as well as encourages the sustainable research and development by the concerned communities.

The international network seeks the membership geoparks—geographical areas where geological heritage is the focus of local protection, education and development.

The GGN works closely with another project under UNESCO's Ecological and Earth Sciences Division—the Man and Biosphere (MAB) World Network of Biosphere Reserves—to come up with and establish different means of sustainable development in promoting the local communities’ relationship with the natural environment.

Note * Kula Volcanic Geopark designated in 2013 was extended and renamed as Kula Salihli in 2020 Whilst the length of the list has grown year on year, some members drop out from time to time, either by choice or by failing the network's revalidation procedures.