Semiannual Journal of Geoconservation Research (Geoconserv. Res.) is an international, double-blind, open access and peer-review journal. Accepted manuscripts will not be subject to any page charges and article processing charges. We encourage all researchers, professors, experts and practitioners to submit their original work and papers to the GCR journal. The journal grants all users free, worldwide and perpetual access and is fully funded by IAU - Isfahan Branch. The new publisher of the journal is OICC Press. Journal DOI: 10.57647/gcr Journal Abbreviation: Geoconserv Res Journal Title Acronym: GCR Owner organisation: Islamic Azad University-Isfahan Branch Publisher: Islamic Azad University-Isfahan Branch, Co-publishing, OICC Press, UK Editor-in-Chief: Michael Benton, PhD Director-in-Charge: Vachik Hairapetian, PhD Managing Director: Mahshid Pezeshki Aims and Scope of Geoconserv. Res.: Geoconservation in theory and practice Thematic scope of geoconservation projects Geodiversity and its scientific justification at national, regional and global scales Geoparks, practical aspects of identification, establishment, and enhancement Geological site maintenance and enhancement: practical aspects of geoconservation Museums: specimen-based geoconservation Geotourism: harnessing the interest of different interest groups Education and how to engage and explain geoconservation sites Geohazards, understanding, predicting and mitigating This journal is a member of COPE and subscribes to the principles of, the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE)(https://publicationethics.org/). Geoconservation Research has been indexed in Emerging Sources Citation Index Note: The previous URLs of the journal were: http://gcr.khuisf.ac.ir/ https://gcr.isfahan.iau.ir/
From Geological Heritage to Sustainable Development: A Practice-Based Model for UNESCO Global Geoparks Development in Iran
Iran has actively worked to register its uniquely diverse geological landscapes within the UNESCO Global Geoparks (UGGp) framework. We explore the practical realities of that effort, focusing on three core cases: Qeshm Island, which paved the way as the pioneering initiative in both Iran and the broader Middle East; Tabas, recognized for its extraordinary stratigraphic record spanning 500 million years; and Aras, which serves as a compelling model for balancing heavy industrial development with community-led heritage conservation. We present a five-stage development model for territories preparing a UNESCO Global Geopark nomination that highlights the necessity of rigorous scientific inventories, multi-stakeholder governance, and genuine local participation. By comparing these distinct territories, we identify transferable lessons for managing Geoparks under complex administrative constraints. We also unpack the systemic reasons why Geopark expansion has historically stalled in Iran and propose a framework to address these barriers. A shortlist of thirty candidate regions, assessed for scientific rarity, geosite integrity, and strategic viability, is presented to guide future designation efforts.
Copyright (c) -1 Alireza Amrikazemi, Artur A. Sá, Nikolaos Zouros (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
How Tourists' Flow Experience Relates to Cultural-Natural Destination Advocacy through Restorative Encounters - Aras UNESCO Global Geopark in Iran
Key psychological elements of tourism include flow experience, restorative experience, and destination advocacy intention, yet their interrelationships are inadequately understood. This study investigates how flow experience influences destination advocacy intention through restorative experience, with implications for geoheritage conservation. Grounded in the Stimulus-Organism-Response (S-O-R) framework, a model was tested using PLS-SEM on data from 288 visitors to Aras UNESCO Global Geopark (UGGp), Iran. All four hypotheses were supported: flow experience enhances restorative experience; restorative experience influences destination advocacy intention; flow experience directly affects destination advocacy intention; and restorative experience partially mediates this relationship. The model explains 39% of variance in advocacy intention and 21% in restorative experience. This study extends the S-O-R framework to geoparks, advances Attention Restoration Theory by identifying flow as an antecedent of restorative perception and reconceptualizes advocacy as conservation citizenship. By demonstrating that flow and restoration cultivate conservation-supportive intentions, this research positions visitor experience management as an integrated geoconservation tool. Practical outcomes may include design of flow-inducing experiences, enhancing restorative qualities, and cultivating tourist advocacy to support geological heritage protection in geoparks.
Copyright (c) -1 Zohreh Hasani, Bahram Yoosefi (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Evaluation of Paleontological Heritage Sites in Türkiye: Scale Design
Natural and cultural heritage sites are protected according to international and national laws. As of 2024, according to the lists of the Ministry of Culture, there are 624 sites where archaeological and paleontological excavations and similar studies are being conducted in Türkiye. These all form parts of the nation’s heritage, including paleontological, geological, and archaeological heritage elements. Here, we emphasize the importance of revealing the heritage values ​​of these areas within the context of their historical development, distribution, and relationship with the environment. We present an applied model using a scale to determine heritage value, focusing on three main dimensions—scientific, educational, and tourism—based on literature, expert opinions, and preliminary applications. For each main dimension, 48 items with four different ratings were prepared. The validity and reliability studies of the scale have been completed and are presented in the appendix of this publication.
Copyright (c) -1 Nazan Karakaş Özür, Gülşah Güler, Ayla Sevim Erol (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Process-Based Geoheritage Assessment Reveals Geological Controls on Volcanic and Basement Landscapes in Plateau State, Nigeria
Plateau State, a highland state in north-central Nigeria, hosts one of the most diverse assemblages of volcanic and basement-controlled landforms in West Africa, including monogenetic cones, maars, ring complexes, granitic uplands, waterfalls, springs, crater lakes, and post-mining terrains. Yet these features are only weakly integrated into a formal geoheritage framework. This study presents the first process-based and spatially explicit assessment of geosites in the state by combining field mapping, digital elevation model-derived terrain analysis, and community knowledge. Eighteen representative geosites, selected to cover the principal volcanic, basement, and hydrological landform types of Plateau State, were evaluated to find how lithology, structure, and topography influence their distribution and geoheritage significance. Geosite clustering corresponds strongly to lithological boundaries, volcanic centers, fault-guided drainage, and major relief contrasts. A standardized assessment framework further reveals high intrinsic geological value but uneven accessibility, documentation, visitor management, and tourism infrastructure across the region. Wase Rock, Shere Hills, and Butura Rocks are the highest-ranking sites, while several scientifically important volcanic and hydrological geosites are still underdeveloped or vulnerable in management terms. The study shows how linking geological processes to geoheritage assessment can guide conservation priorities and sustainable geotourism development, while also strengthening the representation of African landscapes in global geoheritage discourse.
Copyright (c) -1 Kamaldeen Olakunle L. Omosanya, Isah Bunyaminu, Ganiyu O. Mosuro, Hawa Oluwatosin Saka , Adeoye Oshomoji (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Geological Marvels of Kolah Qazi National Park, Central Iran: Middle Jurassic–Late Cretaceous Strata and Invertebrate Richness
Kolah Qazi National Park preserves a diverse assemblage of stratigraphic and paleontological features, which attract both scientists and visitors. The park hosts twelve unique geosites, each revealing different chapters of Earth’s history through well-preserved fossils and distinctive stratigraphy. Highlights include evidence of the Albian Oceanic Anoxic Event, a major paleoceanographic perturbation, and newly identified seep carbonates. These features position Kolah Qazi as a strong candidate for national geopark designation. Such recognition would formally acknowledge its geological significance and enhance its role in education, research, and structured geotourism development while supporting effective conservation management.
Copyright (c) -1 Ziba Shojaei (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Analytical Seismic Risk Assessment in the Aegean Region of Türkiye Using an Adapted Fine-Kinney Method
This study provides a quantitative seismic hazard and risk assessment for eight provinces in Türkiye’s Aegean Region by adapting the Fine–Kinney method to geological conditions. The method, commonly used in industrial safety, was modified by redefining probability (P), frequency (F), and severity (S) to reflect tectonic setting, historical seismicity, and structural vulnerability. Probability was based on each province’s shortest distance to active faults, frequency on the number of Mw ≥ 4.5 earthquakes over the past 35 years, and severity on total building stock. The model was applied to Izmir, Manisa, Aydin, Mugla, Denizli, Usak, Kutahya, and Afyonkarahisar. Izmir and Manisa were classified as “very high risk” (R = 2000), Denizli and Mugla as “high risk” (R = 300), Afyonkarahisar and Aydin as “significant risk,” Kutahya as “definite risk,” and Usak as “acceptable risk.” Seismic hazard is generally high, with risk distribution shaped by fault proximity and building density. The adapted method offers a practical framework for comparing provincial seismic risk and supports evidence-based decisions in disaster management, geoconservation, land-use planning, and earthquake-sensitive architectural and interior design.
Copyright (c) -1 Betül İrem Tarakçı (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Bridging Generational and Educational Divides: Cognitive Uniformity Towards Ecosystem Services in Kenyir Geopark, Terengganu, Malaysia
The designation of Kenyir Lake as a National Geopark necessitates a dynamic balance between rapid tourism development and natural resource conservation, for which local community support is essential. However, empirical studies on the community's engagement with ecosystem service values remain limited, often overshadowing their role in sustainable governance. This study aims to assess the community’s level of understanding regarding the sustainability of ecosystem services across three core dimensions (environmental, social, and heritage) and to analyze the influence of demographic factors on this awareness. Employing a quantitative cross-sectional survey design, data were collected from 510 heads of household in ten strategically selected villages surrounding Kenyir Geopark. Our analysis reveals that the community possesses a high overall level of understanding (mean = 3.49), with the environmental ecosystem dimension scoring the highest (mean = 3.53). Chi-squared tests show no statistically significant differences in the level of understanding based on age or educational attainment (p > 0.05). This cognitive uniformity demonstrates that environmental awareness in Kenyir Geopark is not contingent upon formal education but is driven by the assimilation of traditional knowledge and experience-based learning. We conclude that a robust form of environmental citizenship exists among the local resident population, and we recommend a policy shift towards a bottom-up management approach to ensure the long-term viability of the Geopark's aspirations.
Copyright (c) -1 Ihsan Alwi, Jamilah Mohd Salim, Hazman Samsudin, Hayati Sa’at (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Bibliometric Analysis of Geosite Assessment Methods and Examination of Two Prominent Models
Here, we apply bibliometric analysis and geosite assessment models from the literature. The aim was to compare the two most frequently cited models, considering their strengths and weaknesses and the contexts in which they are most effective. We also considered diversity and interdisciplinary approaches in the applications of the models, and especially their validity in different geographical environments and their scale dependencies. The findings reveal that a single model may not be sufficient in all circumstances, and it is important to adapt model-specific criteria to field conditions.
Copyright (c) -1 Sezgin Abukan, Yaren Göktaş, Ahmet Serdar Aytaç, Zeki Boyraz (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Neural Network Modeling for Forecasting Tourism Demand in Stopića Cave: Balancing Visitor Management and Geoconservation
We predict the number of tourist visits to Stopića Cave using three different approaches: the Auto-Regressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) model, Support Vector Regression (SVR), and the hybrid NeuralProphet method. ARIMA and SVR are classical statistical and machine learning techniques, respectively, while NeuralProphet combines elements of both - incorporating seasonality, trend decomposition, and neural network structures. Forecasting performance across all methods is evaluated on the available dataset, with NeuralProphet outperforming the other models. This hybrid approach enables more effective modeling of non-linear patterns and temporal variability, resulting in greater predictive accuracy. Additionally, Google Trends data is integrated as an external variable to improve model precision. In practical terms, the results can provide essential information for decision-making and sustainable tourism management, offering valuable insights into visitor dynamics at Stopića Cave and a data-driven foundation for addressing issues such as carrying capacity in Serbia’s most visited cave. Accurately forecasting tourism demand is essential for managing visitor pressure at natural attractions, particularly sites experiencing pronounced seasonal fluctuations such as Stopića Cave. Reliable predictions support planning, resource allocation, and sustainable management efforts.
Copyright (c) -1 Buda Bajić, Srđan Milićević, Aleksandar Antić, Slobodan Marković, Nemanja Tomić (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Modelling the natural Geotourism Potential of North Sepidan County Using a Multi-Criteria Approach and Kriging-Based GIS Approach
plays a vital role in preserving geological heritage while fostering local economic development, particularly in mountainous regions. Sepidan County in Fars Province, southern Iran, is a promising destination for county-level geotourism for its diverse geological structures, geomorphological features, and distinctive natural phenomena. We applied three assessment models within the MCDM framework—GAM, AHP, and CoBaLiKoA –to identify and prioritize sites for sustainable development. Results consistently ranked Margoon Waterfall, Barm Firuz Lake, Sheshpir Lake, and the Chellegah karst zone as the top geosites in terms of scientific value, aesthetic appeal, accessibility, and conservation potential. Spatial interpolation using Kriging in ArcGIS revealed that the highest intensities of geotourism potential are concentrated in the northern and northwestern sectors of Sepidan, particularly in areas surrounding lakes, springs, and karst landscapes. The findings highlight the need for participatory planning, sustainable infrastructure development, and geoheritage conservation. By integrating MCDM techniques with geostatistical Kriging in a GIS-based framework, this study addresses a significant gap in comprehensive geotourism assessments and provides a precise and practical strategy for sustainable county-level geotourism development in Sepidan. The interdisciplinary methodology, combining spatial analysis, multi-criteria evaluation, and community engagement, not only distinguishes this study from previous research but also offers a replicable framework for geotourism planning in other mountainous regions of Iran.
Copyright (c) -1 Atefeh Nimroozi (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Resistance of Indigenous Peoples of "Atoni Pah Meto" to the Conversion of Mutis Nature Reserve into Mutis Timau National Park in Indonesia
This study focuses on the resistance of the Atoni Pah Meto indigenous community in the island of Timor in Indonesia to the proposed conversion of the Mutis Nature Reserve into a national park, noted for biodiversity and geodiversity. The findings from in-depth interviews and documentary research reveal that the Atoni Pah Meto community opposed the proposed conversion to preserve the Mutis area as the heart of their cultural identity and socio-economic livelihood. They are concerned that the conversion would primarily benefit specific individuals or groups, further marginalizing local communities. Their resistance was expressed through protests, collective action, advocacy, and cultural ceremonies, together representing a struggle to assert their rights for justice, particularly in relation to forest management and socio-economic development in their territory. Although the Government of Indonesia has officially reclassified the status of Mutis Nature Reserve to Mutis Timau National Park, we suggest that community engagement and socialization efforts remain essential. Such empowering and engagement of local communities is critical to fostering sustainable conservation of natural resources.
Copyright (c) -1 Kristianto Ratu Marius Naben, Krisdyatmiko, Gabriel Faimau (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Collaborative Cartography as a Tool for Inventory of Waterfalls in Municipalities in Southern Brazil
We investigate collaborative cartography as a tool for inventorying waterfalls in the municipalities of Pelotas and Arroio do Padre in southern Brazil. We aim to identify and catalog waterfalls through community participation to support the development of geotourism itineraries and promote the dissemination and environmental interpretation of these geodiversity elements. We employed a two-phase approach through online questionnaires distributed through social media platforms during the COVID-19 pandemic. The first phase (December 2020–March 2021) involved 70 collaborators who identified 17 waterfalls, while the second phase (September–October 2021) engaged 36 additional participants who contributed three new waterfall identifications. The survey instrument, titled "Cachoeiras Costa Doce Form," collected data on waterfall names, locations, and optional photographic documentation. Field validation was conducted in February 2022 using GPS technology and aerial imagery to verify collaborative mapping results and assess waterfall characteristics. Respondents identified 18 waterfalls, with four receiving the highest recognition: Imigrante (25 mentions), Arco-Íris (18 mentions), Paraíso (14 mentions), and Camboatá (14 mentions). Of the five criteria, eight waterfalls demonstrated high accessibility values, seven exhibited significant cultural connections, and eleven maintained excellent environmental preservation status. The study demonstrates that collaborative cartography effectively leverages local community knowledge to identify geoheritage elements, particularly in areas with geological-geomorphological significance. However, limitations include potential selection bias due to digital divide constraints affecting rural populations with limited internet access. The methodology has potential for international replication and contributes to sustainable geotourism development while supporting geoconservation initiatives through community engagement and scientific assessment integration.
Copyright (c) -1 Victória Dejan Paganotto, Adriano Luís Heck Simon (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Re-excavation and Interpretation of Key Sections in the Purbeck Group (Tithonian-Berriasian): Teffont Evias, Vale of Wardour, Wiltshire, England
The largely non-marine Tithonian-Berriasian (terminal Jurassic–basal Cretaceous) Purbeck Group of the Vale of Wardour, Wiltshire, western England, was well exposed during the nineteenth century and yielded numerous fossils, notably a rich insect fauna from fine-grained micrites of lagoonal origin. In early 2025, re-excavation of the Teffont Evias Lane Cutting and Quarry Site of Special Scientific Interest (around the boundary of the Lulworth and Durlston formations) allowed re-examination of a key part of the succession for its stratigraphy, paleontology and paleoenvironmental interpretation. Current interpretation of the Teffont Evias sections is summarized, with thoughts on future research potential and direction.
Copyright (c) -1 Jonathan D. Radley, Robert A. Coram, Jonathan R. Hall, Margaret Feneley (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Geotourism Potential for Sustainable Geotourism Development at Phou Pha Marn, Khammouane Province, Laos
Phou Pha Marn, located in Khammouane Province, Laos, is a karst landscape of notable geological and geomorphological interest. This study assesses its geotourism potential through the application of the Modified Geosite Assessment Model (M-GAM), integrating expert-based and visitor-oriented evaluation criteria. Five representative geosites, including Konglor Cave, Karst Tower Ridge, and the Nam Dene doline field, were assessed for their scientific, educational, aesthetic, and touristic values. The results indicate that Konglor Cave scored highest overall (0.75), with outstanding scientific and educational value, while Karst Tower Ridge demonstrated exceptional aesthetic appeal (0.90). Despite moderate infrastructure scores, the area exhibits high geoheritage potential due to its diverse karst features, cultural associations, and landscape integrity. Comparative insights from successful geotourism models in Albania, Serbia, Vietnam, and Malaysia further inform the development framework. The study concludes with strategic recommendations for sustainable geotourism planning, infrastructure enhancement, and community-based geoheritage conservation, positioning Phou Pha Marn as a strong candidate for future geotourism initiatives in Southeast Asia.
Copyright (c) -1 Phomsanh Chantharangsone, Kethsa Nanthavongdouangsy, Vongphet Sihapanya, Li Bo, Khamsone Latthayot (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Geotourism Potential in the Zagros Simply Folded Zone: Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari Province
The mountainous regions of Iran, particularly Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari Province, exhibit considerable potential for the development of geotourism. This study explores three main themes: (1) the geodiversity of the Central Zagros zone, located within Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari Province, based on existing literature and field investigations; (2) potential geo-educational sites in the region; and (3) ideas for developing geo-products that can enhance the local economy, while also identifying both tangible and intangible cultural heritage related to geosciences. Data were analyzed using observational and qualitative methods. The findings clearly demonstrate that Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari Province—particularly the Central Zagros zone—possesses high geological diversity, making it a strong candidate for geotourism promotion. Further analysis identified eleven geo-educational sites based on accessibility and educational value. Lastly, several proposals for developing geo-products were formulated, grounded in both the tangible and intangible cultural heritage of the region. In conclusion, the study affirms that Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari Province offers substantial potential for sustainable geotourism development.
Copyright (c) -1 Aida Davoudian Dehkordi, Neda Torabi Farsani, Vachik Hairapetian (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Crassostrea coquina bed in the Qeshm Geopark (Southern Iran): Paleontology, Paleoecology and Geotourism Potential
The Crassostrea coquina bed on Qeshm Island is named for its high abundance of Crassostrea virginica fossils. Field surveys and photographic documentation from two key locations show that there are three lithostratigraphic units deposited in deltaic or estuarine environments. Morphological changes in the oyster community suggest an upward increase in sediment load and depositional rate. Evidence of mechanical abrasion and erosion on disarticulated oyster shells indicates accumulation by strong storm and flood or tsunami currents. A Plio-Pleistocene age is confirmed through comparison with identified taxa (Crassostrea virginica, Pecten vasselii, Pecten jacobaeus?, Chlamys varia, Placuna placenta, and Conus sp.) and the surrounding Aghajari Formation. The outcrops of the Crassostrea coquina bed in Qeshm Island could be considered as new geosites in the Qeshm International Geopark. Coquina beds hold significant geotourism potential due to their unique bioclastic composition, fossil-rich layers, and paleoenvironmental insights. Their aesthetic appeal and educational value attract both scientific and general visitors, offering opportunities for geoheritage interpretation. Sustainable management, including controlled access and taphonomic monitoring, is essential to preserve these fragile geological archives.
Copyright (c) -1 Mohammad Javad Hassani, Vachik Hairapetian (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
New Geosites Inventory for Geoconservation and Geotourism Improvement in Alagna Valsesia, Sesia Val Grande UNESCO Global Geopark (Italy)
Geoheritage is an important resource for modern society, and the inventory of geosites is an increasingly crucial element to encourage geoconservation actions and foster the sustainable development of an area. The present paper offers an analysis aimed at assessing 25 potential geosites in Alagna Valsesia, an alpine area within the Sesia Val Grande UNESCO Global Geopark (NW Italy), both qualitatively and quantitatively. The qualitative assessment was performed using a descriptive form created for a project to catalog the geosites of the Piemonte Region, focusing on the scientific, aesthetic, conservation, and tourism relevance of the geoheritage elements. Statistical analysis of the new inventory, using both qualitative and quantitative assessments, has enabled a more detailed classification of the geosites and an understanding of benefits and limitations of both methodologies. We find that for a comprehensive territorial strategy, the qualitative and quantitative methods are complementary. The qualitative approach aids geoconservation with detailed geosite descriptions, benefiting spatial managers and geoparks, and the quantitative method enables objective comparisons, supporting regional geotourism development.
Copyright (c) -1 Michele Guerini, Arianna Negri, Alizia Mantovani, Marco Giardino (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Qanat Tourism Development: A Content Analysis Approach
Qanats, as remarkable feats of water engineering and symbols of indigenous knowledge in arid regions, hold a unique position in cultural heritage and sustainable tourism. Qanat tourism, a subset of geotourism, not only examines historical water systems but also provides opportunities to engage with the culture and history of local communities. This study utilizes content analysis to explore the key factors driving the development of qanat tourism. Data were gathered through semi-structured interviews with experts and analysis of relevant documents. The findings emphasize the importance of factors such as infrastructure development, resource provision and financial support, training and awareness, enhancing local culture and indigenous identity, host community empowerment, water resource and environmental protection, tourist security and health, and effective marketing strategies. Additionally, the study identifies key challenges to qanat tourism development, which require strategic attention and planning to address. These insights contribute to managerial decision-making and policy formulation aimed at promoting qanat tourism across diverse regions.
Copyright (c) -1 Faezeh Asadian Ardakani (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Potential Ecosystem Services Contribution of Geodiversity in Carajás National Forest, Amazon Biome, Pará, Brazil
In the 1970s, growing environmental concerns led researchers to address ecological issues from an economic perspective, highlighting society’s dependence on ecosystems. This resulted in the emergence of the terms natural capital and ecosystem services, which are defined as the benefits people obtain from ecosystems. The traditional approach to ecosystem services overlooks the services provided by geodiversity, which comprises the diversity of non-living nature. This article aims to quantitatively assess and map the ecosystem services provided by geodiversity in the Carajás National Forest, located in Pará, Brazil, referencing its management plan. The study area also includes the Campos Ferruginosos National Park. The methodology was in two main stages: (i) Identification and classification of ecosystem services provided by geodiversity; (ii) Counting occurrences of each type of geodiversity service. Variables were grouped into regulation, support, provisioning, and cultural categories. Considering the relevance of cave occurrences, speleosystemic services were included. Ecosystem services in the Carajás National Forest mining zone are very high in all categories, mainly from the presence of over 900 caves. This area includes iron, manganese, deactivated gold, licensed but not yet installed copper, sand, and granite mines. The mining zone aims to minimize the impact on adjacent areas and prioritize recovering degraded areas with native species, prohibiting invasive exotics. The management plan does not directly address caves crucial for ecosystem regulation, water quality, and soil stability. Besides caves, high-altitude lakes play a fundamental role in regulating the hydrological cycle and promoting water quality. Provisioning services are very high in the mining zone but only medium in the Sustainable Forest Management zone, where timber management is unfeasible due to mining impacts. The Preservation Zone, classified as having low potential for geodiversity ecosystem services, maintains nature in its most primitive state. It is essential for regenerating other zones and preserving ecosystems and genetic resources.
Copyright (c) -1 Úrsula de Azevedo Ruchkys, Paulo de Tarso Amorim Castro, Paulo Henrique Maciel Pádua, Heros Augusto Santos Lobo (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Strengthening Collaborative Governance: Implementing the Pentahelix Approach to Address Challenges in the Toba Caldera UNESCO Global Geopark, Indonesia
The Toba Caldera UNESCO Global Geopark (TCUGGp), renowned for its exceptional geological and cultural significance, holds great potential to catalyze regional development and community empowerment. However, the TCUGGp received a warning status (yellow card) for revalidation of its status from the UNESCO Global Geoparks Council (UGGpC) in 2024. Here, we explore the shortcomings and challenges in developing, managing, and promoting the geopark using primary and secondary data. We find that the TCUGGp faced significant challenges, including insufficiencies in human resources, financial constraints, low levels of community engagement, infrastructure gaps, and governance issues, which contributed to the warning status. We propose adopting a collaborative governance model based on the Pentahelix approach, integrating academia, business, community, government, and media (ABCGM) to address these challenges. We suggest how to involve the five stakeholders, and practical implementation for future actions for each stakeholder. By these means, we expect the TCUGGp to reverse its warning status and retain its UGGp status while building a better managerial team and sustainable geopark.
Copyright (c) -1 Betty B.S. Naibaho, Shew Jiuan Su (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Gamification and Marketing of Geotourism Destinations: Aras UNESCO Global Geopark in Iran
We explore the impact of gamification on the marketing mix of geotourism destinations. This is a form of developmental research and is descriptive-analytical in nature and method. In the first phase, data were collected to develop an initial conceptual model through a semi-structured questionnaire and expert consultations, and the results were analyzed using thematic analysis. In the second phase, the initial conceptual model was tested in the Aras Global Geopark in Iran, the case study for this research, using a structured questionnaire and structural equation modeling. We find that gamification has a positive impact on the marketing mix of Aras Global Geopark, creating a unique experience for visitors by influencing elements such as product, price, promotion, place, people, process, and physical evidence. Moreover, it enhances visitors' awareness of the significance of geoheritage, contributing to the conservation of this valuable resource.
Copyright (c) -1 Sajad Ferdowsi, Sayeh Davoodi Ilkhechi (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Atmospheric Paleoart: A Case Study of the Murals in the Paleozoological Museum of China
Expansive works of paleoart in natural history museums have the power to set the atmosphere in a gallery space. In this sense, the artwork can be described as atmospheric. Atmospheric paleoart is usually thematically associated with the surrounding objects on display, where it can enhance the exhibition narrative and become an independent display object itself. Atmospheric paleoart also plays a significant role in the public understanding of paleontology. The Paleozoological Museum of China in Beijing contains three large murals as part of its key exhibition narrative. These expansive paintings were installed for the public opening of the museum in 1994, but they are poorly documented. Each mural showcases one of the three ‘ages of life’– the Paleozoic, Mesozoic, and Cenozoic – as represented predominantly by prehistoric biotas from China. This paper provides a record of these important murals, focusing on their scientific and social value, while exploring perspectives on the development of paleoart in China.
Copyright (c) 2024 Qi Wang, Yuan Wang, Adam S. Smith (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
While museums have long been associated with the protection and interpretation of cultural, historical, and natural heritage, their role in geoconservation has only become more prominent in recent decades. Geoconservation focuses on the conservation of geological features, processes, and landscapes, and has gained recognition as an important area of environmental protection, particularly in the context of climate change and anthropogenic pressures on natural resources. Importantly, geoconservation is based on the fundamental scientific evaluation of those locations, such as open landscapes, coastlines, and quarries in terms of their regional and international significance. Therefore, there are two roles for museums in connection with geoconservation, namely scientific and educational. Museums promote geoconservation through their collections, exhibitions, research, and public outreach. Different papers in the volume address questions of proper collecting practice and making links from the conserved geological sites to the curated collections in a museum, largely in the context of their scientific worth. Collecting on the land can be a fraught topic in the context of moving specimens from place to place, especially in moving them from one nation to another. What was once done without thought is now an important area of ethical debate. Such considerations are important also in education, where the choice of language and terminology can matter. Further, museums, like geoparks, rely on the support of visitors and it is important for all audiences to be considered in planning the educational and engagement activities in museums and integrating with nearby geosites. Partnerships between museums and geosites can present benefits for both. Papers in the Special Issue We publish 11 papers in this Special Issue, addressing different topics in the relationship of museums with geoconservation sites and objectives. Our authors come from many countries (UK, Germany, France, Morocco, Australia, and China) and reflect specific examples from each of these nations. In two articles, the authors explore practical, legal, and ethical issues between geological sites and museums. Van Geert (2024) compares the presentation of geology in geopark museums and natural history museums, focusing on the French and Spanish Catalan region of Europe. He notes how the expansion of the geoheritage concept has led to profound changes in museums and the wider heritage sector as these institutions adapt to strengthening the link between natural and cultural heritage. He also sees real impacts from increasing awareness among professionals and the public for issues associated with decolonization issues and the climate crisis. In their paper, Reedman et al. (2024) explore fossil collecting along parts of the Dorset and East Devon Coast World Heritage Site. Fossil collecting is managed through codes of conduct rather than laws. The codes operate on rapidly eroding coastlines where fossils may be found at any time and if they are not collected might be lost to erosion. This makes it impractical to mandate official collecting by licensed authorities only because they do not have the time to monitor many kilometers of coastline every few days. On the other hand, the hundreds of thousands of visitors could cause great harm by over-collecting and dispersing the fossils. A balance is struck, whereby visitors may collect common fossils such as ammonites, but are encouraged to report any particularly impressive specimens or marine reptile bones. It is unknown how many remarkable fossils are removed without being recorded, but sufficient specimens are recorded by the local museums along the coast that the authors conclude the codes of good practice are at least substantially effective. Two papers, respectively from the UK and Australia, explore issues of decolonization and current issues between occupants of the land. Gelsthorpe (2024) provides a thoughtful consideration of decolonization as it affects a museum, in his case the Manchester Museum, that acquired specimens from all over the world in times when few questions were asked about ethical matters. He argues that ‘the repatriation of geological specimens can be regarded as a barometer of the progress of decolonization’. He provides an example of how the Manchester Museum returned a Cretaceous fossil bird specimen that had been purchased illegally to China and uses this as a wake-up call to encourage other museums to be proactive in contacting authorities in other nations to offer the return of specimens. Hurst et al. (2024) explore live situations in Australia where scientists and museums have up to now often ignored the wishes and interests of the First Nations peoples. They note that museums in Australia, and more widely, exhibit numerous examples of First Nations art, and ethical considerations about how those artifacts were obtained and how they are exhibited and explained can be enormous. There are also major concerns ignored to a large extent hitherto about the land throughout Australia and how we approach and talk about it. Every geological site is on the ancestral lands of a First Nations group, and Hurst et al. present ideas about proper engagement between Western-trained scientists and First Nations peoples. Sally Hurst pioneered an engagement scheme throughout Australia called ‘Found a Fossil’ survey, and the authors present results and examples of further outcomes between museums and geosites concerning dinosaur tracks, stone tools, and a film project that have brought together disparate interests and cultures around important geological themes. We then present five articles that provide examples of different means of illustrating and disseminating information about geosites through museums. El Hamidy et al. (2024) show the National Ceramics Museum in Safi, Morocco (NCMSM) helps to promote geotourism and protect geosites through a variety of activities, including geosite visits, educational programs, interpretive panels, geotours, awareness campaigns, souvenir offers, and interactive applications. Lincoln and Colley (2024) provide an account of how a small geological museum in northern England, the Kendal Museum, used stories around some ‘local heroes’ to interest the local people and visitors in how geologists work and to make connections from the museum displays to local geosites that tourists can visit. In a similar way, Munt (2024) reports the history of a newer museum, the Dinosaur Isle Museum on the Isle of Wight, southern England, founded in 2001, and how it exhibits dinosaur fossils all found within at most a few kilometers of the museum. He argues that place is important in the location of this museum, allowing visitors and local people to realize the remarkable specimens on show are very local to the museum itself, and inspiring some at least to walk or drive on to see some of the original find spots of dinosaur skeletons and footprints. The fourth case study is from the IVPP museum in Beijing, China, where Wang et al. (2024) present a detailed account of the great wall murals that act as a backdrop to the collections on all three floors of the galleries. They show how they are a good representation of the state of knowledge of Chinese palaeontology in the early 1990s, and how the life restorations of animals can help visitors interpret the fossils they see in front of them and connect those back to the sites from which they came, many of them now incorporated into geoparks that are open to visitors. Finally, in this section, Schütrumpf et al. (2024) describe the ‘Ask a Geologist’ service at the Warwick Market Hall Museum in central England, where staff of the museum and volunteers from the county geoconservation group meet the public to answer questions and identify rocks and fossils. The final two articles are about one of the longest-studied geological areas in the world, the Dorset coast in southern England. Davis (2024) describes the Lyme Regis Fossil Festival which has happened each year since 2005, attracting 15–20,000 people each time to the variety of stalls, scientific lectures, circus shows, and other events designed to link people to the geology and palaeontology and especially the geoconservation aspects of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage site. It all began with Mary Anning (1799–1847), and Pearson (2024) presents an evocative account of her involvement in the campaign to establish a statue in honor of the great fossil collector. In particular, she describes how Mary Anning has become a hero worldwide for her contributions and acts as an inspiration for young people, especially girls, to become scientists, but also to take an interest in geology, palaeontology, and geoconservation.
Copyright (c) 2024 Michael J. Benton, Sarah King (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Lyme Regis Fossil Festival – Public Engagement in the Birthplace of Paleontology
Lyme Regis is a small town on the south coast of England, widely regarded as ‘The Birthplace of Paleontology’ due to by the many influential early paleontologists who lived and worked in the area (e.g. Mary Anning, William Buckland, Henry Thomas de la Beche, William Daniel Conybeare). It is situated towards the western end of the Jurassic Coast UNESCO World Heritage Site and is world renowned for its paleontology from the marine Early Jurassic rocks. It draws hundreds of thousands of people to look for fossils each year and there are few major museums in the world that do not hold fossils from the coast around Lyme Regis. The first Lyme Regis Fossil Festival occurred in 2005 and was intended to be a one-off event, but its success meant that it became an annual event. The festival was developed to support earth science engagement in its widest form -it presents everything from scientific lectures to circus performances. Each year the festival has a broad theme, highlighting an earth science topic that underpins the programming of the festival. The festival has two public days over a weekend and a school education day on the preceding Friday. As the festival approaches its 20th anniversary, it has gone through cycles, from lows during the global COVID pandemic and times when funding has been hard to secure, to highs of becoming the largest free public paleontology and earth science engagement event in the world.
Copyright (c) 2024 Paul G. Davis (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Fossil Collecting Codes of Conduct on the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site - practical management connecting fossil collectors, land owners / managers, researchers and museums with the needs of the Site
Fossil collecting along parts of the Dorset and East Devon Coast World Heritage Site is managed via codes of conduct. This paper provides an outline of their terms, an account of how they operate in practice, and a discussion on how best to manage such a popular open access site of great paleontological importance. Both codes operate on rapidly eroding coastlines; such conditions require and support open collecting but subject to a degree of control afforded by the codes. They function as a series of practical considerations, recognizing the value gained by the recovery of fossils prior to damage by natural processes. Adherence to the codes and participation in the recording schemes is a condition of the transfer of ownership. The recording schemes provide a local record of scientifically important fossils and establish a mechanism for requesting access to specimens and a point of reference regarding potential acquisitions. The sustained recording of scientifically important fossils shows that the codes remain effective. The authors conclude that, taking account of all the circumstances specific to this Site, and subject to amendments that may be agreed occasionally, the codes provide the best practical means to manage this important but vulnerable paleontological resource.
Copyright (c) 2024 Christopher Reedman, Phil Davidson, Jonathan Larwood, Sam Scriven, Joshua Smith, David Sole (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Mary Anning Rocks and its Outreach Impacts
The Mary Anning Rocks charity started as a campaign to raise a statue for the noted early paleontologist and fossil collector Mary Anning in her hometown, Lyme Regis. Now, after the statue was raised, the campaign is still a vibrant and engaging example of how to connect with communities, especially with school-age children. This inclusive and creative campaign ignited far-reaching engagement across a multitude of demographics, but in particular, young women who saw themselves represented in the field of geosciences for the first time. By leveraging Anning's legacy this way, Mary Anning Rocks has helped numerous museums and educators by drawing footfall and helping them open their doors to new audiences. Through the creative use of art, social media, and community engagement, they have harnessed Anning's story to encourage interest and learning in the geosciences, forging connections between scientific discovery, cultural heritage, and local communities.
Copyright (c) 2024 Anya Pearson (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Being in the Right Place, Dinosaur Isle Museum, Isle of Wight
The Isle of Wight situated off the south coast of England is a special place for geological heritage. It is a microcosm of the geology of southern England, with a huge reputation as the home of British dinosaurs. Dinosaur Isle Museum has been the vehicle to take a small local collection to international recognition. This brief account focusing on the museum, explores the role of place in where geological museums are located. The Museum is located close to numerous internationally significant Early Cretaceous geological field localities. Whereas place is important, it is the role of fossils, dinosaurs in particular, in the local economy and culture which has been the sustaining factor for the museum, and therefore its continued role in geoconservation.
Copyright (c) 2024 Martin C. Munt (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Museal Activity to Promote Geotourism and Geosite Protection: The Case of the National Ceramics Museum, Safi, Morocco
Museums, as significant actors in their respective areas, face the challenge of evolving beyond being mere repositories of heritage. They are increasingly expected to serve as instrumental contributors to balanced human development and overall societal well-being. This includes actively participating in cultural tourism and geotourism initiatives, which are essential components of broader efforts to enhance collective welfare. This study explores the role of museums in promoting geotourism and preserving geological heritage, using the National Ceramics Museum in Safi, Morocco (NCMSM) as an example. Experts agreed on the potential of museums to promote geotourism and protect geosites through a variety of activities, including geosite visits, educational programs, interpretive panels, geotours, awareness campaigns, souvenir offers, and interactive applications. These initiatives can effectively raise awareness, foster appreciation, and support the conservation of geosites, while also contributing to the development of sustainable geotourism practices. Statistically, amongst the listed activities at NCMSM, the pottery workshops are the most recommended activity as they appeal to people of all ages and levels. The ceramic-rich heritage at NCMSM is encouraged to take a holistic approach, ensuring a wider impact on public understanding, engagement, and preservation efforts.
Copyright (c) 2024 @Authors https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
‘Ask a Geologist’ at Market Hall Museum, Warwick
‘Ask a Geologist’ is a regular Saturday morning event at a local museum where the general public meets geologists, learning about geology and the identification of rocks, fossils and minerals. The events are a collaboration between the county geoconservation group (Warwickshire Geological Conservation Group) and the local museum (Warwick Market Hall Museum). ‘Ask a Geologist’ is attracting many visitors and raising public awareness and appreciation for Earth science and Earth heritage.
More than Museums: Care for Natural and Cultural Heritage in Australia
Fossils and First Nations artifacts are both physical remains that demonstrate the deep history of the Earth and its inhabitants. Modern museums have become the places where both of these kinds of natural and cultural heritage are often stored. Yet, many museums carry baggage of institutional distrust, rooted in damaging colonial practices that rely on extractive approaches to research and collection. These practices have encouraged the separation of paleontological and cultural collections and knowledge, and have often excluded First Nations voices from their exhibitions and research practices, Here, we explore the role of museums and their relationship with paleontological objects and sites in Australia and their relationship with First Nations peoples and heritage. We analyze the results of the ‘Found a Fossil’ survey, and describe three case studies; paleontological and cultural cross-over with dinosaur tracks in the West Kimberley region of Western Australia, the digital Museum of Stone Tools initiative, and the Rola[Stone] documentary film project, both based on Anaiwan Country in New South Wales, Australia. Acknowledging the innate duality of objects and places promotes elevated complexity in the way they are understood, studied, managed, legislated and curated. It is essential that First Nations stories, places, and objects be centered with fossils and geological materials to simultaneously tell the story of life on Earth, and in Australia, the story of the oldest living cultures in the world.