Brazilian cultural institutions, in conjunction with other public authority entities and with the civil society, should recognize and take responsibility for the geological heritage. The Earth has revealed many rich cultural values and meanings since mankind's origin. Iphan has put into action the preservation of geological and archeological sites by means of declaring sites and collections as listed historical heritage items, and it now amplifies its action by establishing a new instrument - the Brazilian Cultural Landscape. The geoparks are an important model where Iphan may exercise its legal assignments and actuate on a shared manner, supported by the international recognition granted by UNESCO.
