Our land is like a book that lies waiting to be read. Through geology, which measures time in millions of years, what stories it tells! Beholding Taiwan’s beautiful landscapes and rich geological resources, how can we fulfill the goals of a global geopark: landscape conservation, environmental education, geotourism, and community participation? This is the focus of our cover story this month.
From north to south, we visit Yeliu and the Northeast Coast in New Taipei City, Caoling in Yunlin County, and the Liji Badlands in Taitung County. We examine how four geoparks in these locations connect to their communities and to the realms of industry, travel and education. And we illuminate cultural links to these precious landscapes that are sure to surprise and inspire.
What motivations prompted four master’s program classmates at National Chengchi University to use money earned from selling coffee to establish daycare centers in Latin America and Africa, utilizing their business profits to make a better world? And what kind of assiduous research has attracted major manufacturers to license intellectual property rights in Taiwanese bitter melon varieties? Creativity is based on passion, and passion requires giving something back. Only then does it bring something more permanent.
Tuong Vy, from Vietnam, holds a love for Taiwan no less encompassing than its natives. Through her radio, TV and online travel shows, she has enabled more people to see our island’s beauty. She too sets a shining example of creativity, passion and determination.
Then there are those who place their trust in faith, to gather the energy to keep pushing forward. On the Baishatun Mazu pilgrimage, each wrinkled hand and eye tells a story. Collectively, they offer a portrait of the Taiwanese people.
Taiwan has rich natural, historical and cultural landscapes. The Raknus Selu Trail is the most romantic feature of the “Taiwan Romantic Route 3” project. It is being put together by a group of people who are fascinated by local history. In the four southernmost townships of Taitung, 20 works by artists from around the world have built a bridge linking the area to the outside. Meanwhile, the ancient heart of Hsinchu entices people to linger. Amid the traces of 300 years of history, imaginative uses of city spaces convey a style only strengthened with the passage of time.
This month we take readers on a journey through Taiwan’s primeval scenery and ancient roads, and uncover the spirit of constant innovation in people in various fields. Like the prospects for health-boosting bitter melons, their futures are bright and boundless.