April 22, 2026 marks the 57th World Earth Day, with this year’s theme Cherish Natural Resources, Safeguard Beautiful China. Centering on geological science popularization, ecological protection and geoscience communication, Wudalianchi Global Geopark joined hands with local schools, communities in Beijing, universities and research institutions to carry out diversified themed science popularization activities simultaneously in multiple regions. Through interesting lectures, on-site experiments and interactive experiences, the park popularizes volcanic geological knowledge among the public and conveys the concept of earth protection.

On the afternoon of April 18, Associate Professor Xu Kejian from China University of Geosciences (Beijing), together with teachers and students of the university, co-organized a special science popularization event Wudalianchi Global Geopark Enters Beijing in Erlizhuang Cadre Sanatorium Community, Haidian District, Beijing. The event focused on volcanic landforms, ecological resources and geological evolution of Wudalianchi. The on-site quiz session was lively, with children actively answering questions concerning the number of volcanoes and the formation of mineral springs. Guided by volunteers, participants completed a baking soda volcano simulation experiment to intuitively understand the principles of volcanic activities. The event also featured a tasting session of characteristic volcanic products. By experiencing mineral water, mineral spring duck eggs, mineral spring tofu and other specialties, teenagers personally felt the natural gifts nurtured by volcanic ecology.

On April 19, the School of Earth Sciences and Resources of China University of Geosciences (Beijing) held a themed lecture entitled Exploring the Volcanic Secret Land of Wudalianchi, Unlocking the Billion-year Codes of the Earth. Taking Wudalianchi as a typical case, Associate Professor Xu Kejian systematically elaborated on volcanic genesis, lava landforms and regional geological evolution, as well as knowledge on volcanic and earthquake disaster prevention. Volcanic simulation demonstrations and professional Q&A sessions were held on site. Participants conducted in-depth discussions on geological conservation, mineral spring formation, volcano-climate relationship and other topics. Those with excellent performance in the quiz were awarded characteristic cultural and creative products of Wudalianchi, realizing immersive geoscience popularization and education.

The series activities also kicked off at No.1 Primary School of Wudalianchi Global Geopark. Students dressed in self-made “lava costumes” and “volcanic ash cloaks”, and vividly reproduced the magnificent eruption scene of Laoheishan Volcano 200,000 years ago through a situational drama. Simulated lava flowed on the stage and fictional volcanic ash drifted in the air. With simple and lively explanations, the young performers interpreted the formation of geological concepts including pyroclastic flow and lava platform. The self-compiled and self-directed drama Volcano Awakening transformed complicated geological evolution history into intuitive stage performance, winning warm applause from the audience.