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Geoparks, Geotrails, and Geotourism – Linking Geology, Geoheritage, and Geoeducation
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Geoparks, Geotrails, and Geotourism – Linking Geology, Geoheritage, and Geoeducation

A special issue of Land (ISSN 2073-445X). This special issue belongs to the section "Landscape Archaeology".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 10 September 2024 | Viewed by 47653

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Margaret Brocx

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Environmental and Conservation Sciences, Murdoch University, Perth, Australia
Interests: geoheritage; geoethics; social ecology
Dr. Vic Semeniuk

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Environmental and Conservation Sciences, Murdoch University, Perth, WA 6150, Australia
Interests: archaeology; geology; geoheritage; geoparks; landscape ecology; wetlands; mangroves; soldier crabs; tidal flats; hydrogeology; coastal dunes

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Geology in its diverse expression in lithologies, structure, stratigraphy, palaeontology, and Earth history, from crystals to landscapes, lends itself to designing of geoparks, geotrails, and geotourism.

Globally, a number of geoparks and geotrails, often thematic, have been established, e.g., UNESCO Global Geoparks where the geology, geotours, and local economy are linked for the well-being of the local people and operate under the auspices of UNESCO, and National or State-oriented geoparks/geotrails where the geology is identified as significant and preserved in conservation estates and utilised for tours, education, and other commercial purposes. Well-designed and organised geoparks/geotrails provide valuable sites for geoeducation, including suitable localities for collecting minerals and fossils, and all types of geoparks/geotrails can function for geotourism.  Geotours in geoparks/geotrails provide excellent opportunity for introducing the public and students to the wealth of information and history that the Earth has to offer, and professional geologists to the diversity of Earth Science globally.

The objective of this publication is to bring together information and case studies on the challenges and successes of geoeducation and geotourism in geoparks, protected areas, geosites, and geotrails.

The scope of invited contributions can encompass the following as individual chapters:

  1. Functions of a geopark, geotrail, or geosite;
  2. How to organise and administrate a geopark, geotrail, or geosite;
  3. How to organise and administrate a geotour;
  4. A review of geoparks globally;
  5. Example of a geopark (a case study)– outlining its geological setting, key geology, educational function, community involvement, and successes/problems;
  6. Example of a geotrail (a case study)– outlining its geological setting, key geology, educational function, community involvement, and successes/problems;
  7. Example of a geosite (a case study)– outlining geological setting, its key geology, educational function, community involvement, and successes/problems;
  8. Some thematic geotours – global examples.

Dr. Margaret Brocx
Dr. Vic Semeniuk
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Land is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • geoparks
  • geotrails
  • geosite
  • geoheritage
  • landscape heritage

Published Papers (20 papers)

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18 pages, 1753 KiB  
Article
Mateo Tepe or Devils Tower: Native and Tourist Differences in Geosite Interpretations
by Richard Stoffle, Kathleen Van Vlack, Heather H. Lim and Alannah Bell
Land 2024, 13(3), 357; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/land13030357 - 12 Mar 2024
Viewed by 666
Abstract
Devils Tower is located in Wyoming, USA. It is composed of volcanic elements from the Tertiary Period of geologic time. Geologists are interested in this geosite because it is a unique, upstanding, steep-sided, high-relief exhumed Tertiary-age volcanic plug. As a Native American cultural [...] Read more.
Devils Tower is located in Wyoming, USA. It is composed of volcanic elements from the Tertiary Period of geologic time. Geologists are interested in this geosite because it is a unique, upstanding, steep-sided, high-relief exhumed Tertiary-age volcanic plug. As a Native American cultural geosite, however, it is often called Mateo Tepe, and it is a sacred place to over 20 Native American tribes. It was inscribed as America’s first national monument in 1906 by President Theodore Roosevelt, because of its special geology. It is visually dramatic due to its columns, which are understood by earth scientists as a wonder of geology but by Native people as the claw scratches of a spiritual bear. These vertical cracks are the focus of rock climbers and Native people, respectively as opportunities for adventure and self-fulfillment and spiritual paths to another dimension and the achievement of religious balance in the world. Mateo Tepe became a national monument due to it being a unique geologic feature. The geopark concept is used in this analysis to talk about this geologically based monument. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geoparks, Geotrails, and Geotourism – Linking Geology, Geoheritage, and Geoeducation)
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33 pages, 10862 KiB  
Article
Evolution of Geotourism in Australia from Kanawinka Global Geopark and Australian National Landscapes to GeoRegions and Geotrails: A Review and Lessons Learned
by Ian D. Lewis
Land 2023, 12(6), 1190; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/land12061190 - 06 Jun 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1415
Abstract
The geological heritage of Australia’s landscapes and World Heritage areas has generally been underpromoted to the public by the tourism industry. However, in 2008, the fledgling world of geotourism in Australia received a significant boost with two events: the Inaugural Global Geotourism Conference [...] Read more.
The geological heritage of Australia’s landscapes and World Heritage areas has generally been underpromoted to the public by the tourism industry. However, in 2008, the fledgling world of geotourism in Australia received a significant boost with two events: the Inaugural Global Geotourism Conference ‘Discover the Earth beneath our Feet’ held in Fremantle, Western Australia, and the declaration of the UNESCO Kanawinka Global Geopark, which linked volcanic regions in South Australia and Victoria. Simultaneously the Australian Federal Government launched the ‘Australian National Landscapes’ (ANL) program. However, this impetus was not sustained when the Kanawinka Global Geopark was deregistered as a UNESCO-branded geopark in 2012, and the ANL program faded within a decade. Despite these setbacks, as an outcome of the 2008 Fremantle conference, several productive lines of geotourism have developed across Australia. This paper reviews the history of Australian geotourism since 2008. It examines the impacts of the experiences, lessons learned, problems for geology as perceived by National Parks and the Environment movement, geological communication problems, and the subsequent evolution of Australian geotourism. From these issues, new non-government bodies and initiatives have arisen, including the Australian Geoparks Network, the Australian Geoscience Council, and the recent development of a National Geotourism Strategy. Strong elements emerging from these initiatives are the increasing development of geotrails (which suit the large Australian continent) and the new Australian concept of ‘GeoRegions’. These are in response to an awareness that geotourism requires a flexible outlook to widen the appreciation and appeal of geological heritage and landscapes to the broader public. A further new direction is suggested: for Australian geotourism to combine with some elements of ICOMOS Cultural Routes. An outstanding example, the ICOMOS Overland Telegraph Line (OTL) Cultural Route that crosses Australia from south to north, is considered. For 2000 km, the construction of this line in the 1870s followed the regional geology and hydrology, relying upon the available biota but bringing about a clash of human cultures. The six colonies of Australia were finally linked to the world by wire, but the arrival of the OTL had a significant impact on the country’s Indigenous inhabitants. In Australia and globally, geotourism is incorporating the A–B–Cs (abiotic, biotic and cultural elements) to more effectively encourage the public to value their landscapes and the associated stories. The OTL provides an example of a newly introduced fourth dimension for geotourism, which gives consideration to the socio-political context of landscape adaptation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geoparks, Geotrails, and Geotourism – Linking Geology, Geoheritage, and Geoeducation)
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19 pages, 20778 KiB  
Article
Geodiversity and Geoheritage to Promote Geotourism Using Augmented Reality and 3D Virtual Flights in the Arosa Estuary (NW Spain)
by Antonio Martínez-Graña, José Angel González-Delgado, Carlos Nieto, Vanessa Villalba and Teresa Cabero
Land 2023, 12(5), 1068; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/land12051068 - 14 May 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1144
Abstract
Geoheritage constitutes a natural resource that promotes sustainable rural tourism by creating employment and activities that allow population settlement in unpopulated areas with great natural heritage. The objective of this work is to value the singularity and variety of the geosites, which show [...] Read more.
Geoheritage constitutes a natural resource that promotes sustainable rural tourism by creating employment and activities that allow population settlement in unpopulated areas with great natural heritage. The objective of this work is to value the singularity and variety of the geosites, which show a wide geodiversity, with lithological, geomorphological, tectonic and natural process diversity (fluvial, coastal, sedimentary, etc.). In the “Arosa estuary” (Galicia, Spain), seven Geosites have been identified, described and valued, determining their scientific, educational and tourist-recreational potential and obtaining values between 565 and 660 points. The state of conservation and risk of degradation is analyzed in order to proceed with their geoconservation, promoting sustainable geo-tourism. The values of degradation susceptibility range between 0.03 and 3 points, and anthropic degradation between 0.33 and 1.73 points. A 3D virtual itinerary is made using Google Earth, implementing descriptive sheets, interpreted diagrams and photographs, and analysis of the geological processes. An interactive virtual flight is presented for academic and tourist purposes to promote geotourism. The virtual tour also has geomatic didactic elements: geoapp and georeferenced thematic cartographies. These resources are helpful for the unknown geoheritage of the population that lives or visits the “Arosa estuary”, favoring sustainable development and fostering attitudes and skills of respect for nature. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geoparks, Geotrails, and Geotourism – Linking Geology, Geoheritage, and Geoeducation)
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25 pages, 9526 KiB  
Article
Using a Geotrail for Teaching Geography: An Example of the Virtual Educational Trail “The Story of Liberec Granite”
by Emil Drápela
Land 2023, 12(4), 828; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/land12040828 - 04 Apr 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1682
Abstract
Geotrails are valuable resources for the field teaching of geography and natural history, as they amusingly explain the phenomena associated with inanimate nature and geoheritage. However, not all geotrails are frequently used for field education, in fact, most of them are only used [...] Read more.
Geotrails are valuable resources for the field teaching of geography and natural history, as they amusingly explain the phenomena associated with inanimate nature and geoheritage. However, not all geotrails are frequently used for field education, in fact, most of them are only used sporadically. In order to identify the key elements needed for a geotrail to be used frequently and successfully for field education, an evaluation of the virtual nature trail “The Story of Liberec Granite”, which is one of the most used trails for educational purposes in the Czech Republic, was carried out. The evaluation was conducted using a questionnaire survey and structured interviews with teachers and other educational staff who have used the geotrail at least three times in their teaching. The results of the evaluation showed that the proximity of the geotrail to the school building is very important, that all geotrail materials must be developed with the target group in mind, i.e., school-age children, and that they must be professionally designed to appeal to the pupils. The geotrail should be accompanied by materials that can be used in field education (such as worksheets), containing tasks for pupils so that they do not remain only the passive recipients of information but become active participants in discerning information. Teachers will also appreciate it if there are methodological materials accompanying the geotrail that explain how to design the fieldwork. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geoparks, Geotrails, and Geotourism – Linking Geology, Geoheritage, and Geoeducation)
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21 pages, 8029 KiB  
Article
Geoheritage of the Precious Opal Bearing Zone in Libanka Mining District (Slovakia) and Its Geotourism and Geoeducation Potential
by Silvia Palgutová and Ľubomír Štrba
Land 2022, 11(12), 2293; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/land11122293 - 14 Dec 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1831
Abstract
The northern part of the Slanské Vrchy Mountains, in Slovakia, within the territory of Dubnik Opal Mines, is considered to be the historical source of opal, including the opal known to the Romans. Dubnik precious opal mineralization originating from post-magmatic hydrothermal fluids based [...] Read more.
The northern part of the Slanské Vrchy Mountains, in Slovakia, within the territory of Dubnik Opal Mines, is considered to be the historical source of opal, including the opal known to the Romans. Dubnik precious opal mineralization originating from post-magmatic hydrothermal fluids based on its values should be recognized as an area of global importance. Geological processes that are connected to Neogene volcanic activity took place in the territory of the Dubnik Opal Mines and resulted in the formation of various geological products and processes represented by polymetallic mineral formation, opal formation, antimonite formation, and mineralization of the supergene stage, as well as the stratovolcano rock environment, which are of geoheritage significance. Remnants of intensive mining activity that took place during the past 2000 years provide opportunities for visitors to explore, study, and appreciate this unique geological heritage of international importance. However, geo-interpretation aimed at the general public (the largest group of potential visitors from sustainable geotourism development) and research on (geo)tourism and/or geoheritage for tourism purposes, as discussed in this paper, are lacking. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geoparks, Geotrails, and Geotourism – Linking Geology, Geoheritage, and Geoeducation)
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14 pages, 5926 KiB  
Article
The Hornsby Quarry Geosite, NSW, Australia—A Geoheritage Treasure
by Trudi A. Semeniuk
Land 2022, 11(12), 2124; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/land11122124 - 25 Nov 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1539
Abstract
Quarrying for aggregate material at Hornsby in New South Wales (Australia) exposed a >100 m-deep cross-section of the volcanic neck of a Jurassic diatreme, which extruded through the Sydney Basin deposits. The cross-section reveals volcanic features at many scales. Globally, there are very [...] Read more.
Quarrying for aggregate material at Hornsby in New South Wales (Australia) exposed a >100 m-deep cross-section of the volcanic neck of a Jurassic diatreme, which extruded through the Sydney Basin deposits. The cross-section reveals volcanic features at many scales. Globally, there are very few instances of such excellent 3D exposure. It is arguable that this exposure alone makes it a geosite of international value. However, evaluation of the Hornsby Diatreme using a geoheritage toolkit shows that it meets various geoheritage conservation criteria, being a reference site, and an historically and culturally important site, as well as hosting important archival material. It has significant features at various scales: at the macroscale, where dish beds are visible on all quarry walls, preserving the structure formed during volcanic accretion and later caldera collapse; at the mesoscale, where breccia and surge layers are visible, providing insight into how magma interacted with various host rock types; and at the microscale, where lapilli, chilled margins on host rock blocks, and carbon-rich xenoliths are visible in hand specimens. As such, the Hornsby Quarry hosts a world-class array of volcanic features and preserves an important period of volcanic and post-volcanic history within the Sydney Basin, fostering geoeducation and geotourism. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geoparks, Geotrails, and Geotourism – Linking Geology, Geoheritage, and Geoeducation)
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31 pages, 12054 KiB  
Article
Factors in the Responsible Management of the Luna Valley Complex Geosite (NW Spain)—A Case Study
by Esperanza Fernández-Martínez, Ismael Coronado, Luna Adrados and Rodrigo Castaño
Land 2022, 11(11), 2082; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/land11112082 - 18 Nov 2022
Viewed by 1282
Abstract
The Luna Valley complex geosite (northwestern Spain) is a region of geoheritage significance located in an area with high environmental value. Geological studies began in the mid-20th century and continue to provide scientific data of significant relevance to the knowledge regarding the Palaeozoic [...] Read more.
The Luna Valley complex geosite (northwestern Spain) is a region of geoheritage significance located in an area with high environmental value. Geological studies began in the mid-20th century and continue to provide scientific data of significant relevance to the knowledge regarding the Palaeozoic stratigraphy of northern Gondwana and the tectonics of the Variscan orogen. This region also has high value for geoeducation, being visited regularly by both students and the general public. Educational use of the area has promoted the creation of several publicly available materials and activities that include trails, guides, displays and brochures, as well as the development of a small museum. However, over time, weathering; the abandonment of rural life; and the intensive, uncontrolled, and careless use of this region as a geosite for scientific and educational purposes has led to significant degradation and the consequent loss of its geoheritage value. This paper describes the geology of five key geosites in the Luna Valley. This is followed by a review of the promotional initiatives carried out in the area. These data, along with our knowledge of the area, allow us to develop a heritage analysis that includes the main geological interests, conservation status and some key management issues for each of these five individual sites. Several recommendations aim to control the physical degradation of the geosites, encourage their regular monitoring and the updating of the outreach materials using virtual tools, and promote the involvement of the local population in the conservation of this unique site. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geoparks, Geotrails, and Geotourism – Linking Geology, Geoheritage, and Geoeducation)
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19 pages, 16426 KiB  
Article
Geological Heritage in the “Arribes del Duero” Natural Park (Western, Spain): A Case Study of Introducing Educational Information via Augmented Reality and 3D Virtual Itineraries
by Antonio Miguel Martínez-Graña, Teresa Díez, José Ángel González-Delgado, Juan Carlos Gonzalo-Corral and Leticia Merchán
Land 2022, 11(11), 1916; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/land11111916 - 28 Oct 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1366
Abstract
The concept of geological heritage has been introduced into the protected area of the Arribes del Duero Natural Park, which is west of the Salamanca and Zamora Provinces, Spain for the purpose of developing a guide to places of geological and geomorphological interest, [...] Read more.
The concept of geological heritage has been introduced into the protected area of the Arribes del Duero Natural Park, which is west of the Salamanca and Zamora Provinces, Spain for the purpose of developing a guide to places of geological and geomorphological interest, through which geoenvironmental itineraries were developed in order to demonstrate to both the students and tourists, the geological context of the events in the geological history of this natural park. Twelve of the most geologically representative geosites were assessed using 18 quantitative parameters dealing with the scientific, didactic and cultural-tourist interest of each site. The objective of this paper is to describe and analyze the points of interest that are of geoheritage significance and to develop of an inventory that will ultimately facilitate geoconservation and the dissemination of information through educational virtual itineraries that reveal the known geological history of an area. A 3D virtual geological route was created in Google Earth for educational use with superimposed georeferenced cartographies, together with a field guide and an app. The virtual route allows the participants to follow the geological events and the natural history of the park using digital devices in real time with the possibility of observing the relief, the geology and having access to the informative files describing each geosite. Using a field guide, each geosite is complemented with activities, and the participants have the option to evaluate what has been learned. An app makes the itinerary more interactive. These georesources allow a teaching–learning process where the student is an active part of the development and creation of the contents using technologies that provide an entertaining and didactic learning experience, and this involves working as a team and interacting with social networks, thus, potentially influencing the attitudes and skills development that are involved in geoconservation as an element for its sustainable development. The identification of geological heritage currently constitutes a great resource to promote the sustainable development of it and employment in very depopulated rural areas. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geoparks, Geotrails, and Geotourism – Linking Geology, Geoheritage, and Geoeducation)
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35 pages, 23663 KiB  
Article
Geomorphological Classification of Monogenetic Volcanoes and Its Implication to Tectonic Stress Orientation in the Middle Atlas Volcanic Field (Morocco)
by Mohammed Benamrane, Károly Németh, Mohamed Jadid and El Hassan Talbi
Land 2022, 11(11), 1893; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/land11111893 - 25 Oct 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3683
Abstract
The Middle Atlas Volcanic Field (MAVF) covers an area of 1500 km2, with a total erupted volume of solid products (e.g., Dense Rock Equivalent or DRE) estimated to be more than 80 km3. The MAVF comprises 87 monogenetic basaltic [...] Read more.
The Middle Atlas Volcanic Field (MAVF) covers an area of 1500 km2, with a total erupted volume of solid products (e.g., Dense Rock Equivalent or DRE) estimated to be more than 80 km3. The MAVF comprises 87 monogenetic basaltic volcanoes of Tertiary-Quaternary age as scoria cones (71%) and maars (29%). These monogenetic basaltic volcanoes have various morphologies (e.g., circular, semi-elliptic, elliptic in map views). They can be isolated or form clustered monogenetic complexes. They are largely grouped in the Middle Atlas, in an intraplate geotectonic context forming two distinct major alignments (N160–170° and N40–50°), each closely associated with regional structural elements. By the best estimates, the preserved bulk pyroclastic products do not exceed 0.7 km3, and they show large textural and componentry diversity (e.g., bedded/unbedded, coarse/fine, dense/scoriaceous fallout and pyroclastic density current deposit, etc.). Lava flows also demonstrate great variety of preserved surface textures, including pāhoehoe, ‘a’ā, and clastogenic types. Morphostructural features of lava flows linked to lava flow dynamics have also been recognized, and the presence of hornitos, columnar jointed basaltic flow units, lava tubes, tumuli, and clastogenic lava flows have been recognized and mapped. Some half-sectioned dykes expose interior parts of magmatic shallow feeding pipes. The current morphology of the volcanoes of the MAVF reflects various syn- and post-eruptive processes, including (1) erosional features due to weathering, (2) gravitational instability during and after volcanic activity, (3) vegetation impact, and (4) successive burial of lava flows. The documented volcanic features of this typical monogenetic volcanic field form the core of the region’s geoheritage elements and are considered to be unique in the new African geoheritage context. Hence, they will likely form the basis of future geotourism, geoeducation, and geoconservation ventures. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geoparks, Geotrails, and Geotourism – Linking Geology, Geoheritage, and Geoeducation)
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19 pages, 5241 KiB  
Article
Geosite Assessment in the Beigua UNESCO Global Geopark (Liguria, Italy): A Case Study in Linking Geoheritage with Education, Tourism, and Community Involvement
by Pietro Marescotti, Giulia Castello, Antonino Briguglio, Maria Cristina Caprioglio, Laura Crispini and Marco Firpo
Land 2022, 11(10), 1667; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/land11101667 - 27 Sep 2022
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2209
Abstract
The inventory and the assessment of geosites plays a very important role in highlighting scientific, geotouristic, and geoeducational potential, as well as the ability to identify any criticalities and vulnerabilities of the geological heritage of a territory. Within a geopark, these assessment activities [...] Read more.
The inventory and the assessment of geosites plays a very important role in highlighting scientific, geotouristic, and geoeducational potential, as well as the ability to identify any criticalities and vulnerabilities of the geological heritage of a territory. Within a geopark, these assessment activities are also crucial for developing land management strategies and policies that not only meet the need to protect geological and natural heritage, but also to promote sustainable economic development of the area and local communities. The Beigua UNESCO Global Geopark (Liguria, Italy) includes fifty-four sites known for their significant geological values. In this work, we have combined a study aimed at the qualitative and quantitative evaluation of 10 of the 54 sites with the results of an analysis of the educational, touristic, and land management activities that have been developed on these sites from 2011 to 2021. The quantitative assessment of the ten selected sites reveals their high scientific value and considerable touristic and/or educational potential. Thus, they represent not only scientific geological heritage to be preserved but also a significant tourism resource for the geopark territory. This is confirmed by the great success of geotouristic and geoeducational initiatives developed in the park over the last ten years, and by the growing involvement of the local communities, institutions, entrepreneurial activities, as well as environmental, sports, and cultural associations. These results highlight some important aspects for the management of geological heritage and associated values within a geopark. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geoparks, Geotrails, and Geotourism – Linking Geology, Geoheritage, and Geoeducation)
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37 pages, 15870 KiB  
Article
Geotrails as a Medium for Education and Geotourism: Recommendations for Quality Improvement Based on the Results of a Research Project in the Swabian Alb UNESCO Global Geopark
by Julian Stolz and Heidi Elisabeth Megerle
Land 2022, 11(9), 1422; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/land11091422 - 29 Aug 2022
Cited by 15 | Viewed by 2735
Abstract
Geotourism is one of the fastest growing tourism branches. Geoparks feature prominently in geotourism as well as geoeducation. Well-designed geotrails link local geology, geoheritage and geoeducation. Unfortunately many trails do not consider or insufficiently acknowledge recent didactic and touristic findings. As a result, [...] Read more.
Geotourism is one of the fastest growing tourism branches. Geoparks feature prominently in geotourism as well as geoeducation. Well-designed geotrails link local geology, geoheritage and geoeducation. Unfortunately many trails do not consider or insufficiently acknowledge recent didactic and touristic findings. As a result, they fail to interest a lay audience in geological phenomena, convey relevant information, and attract tourists to the region. A catalogue of state-of-the-art criteria for the evaluation of existing geotrails based on a case study of the UNESCO Global Geopark Swabian Alb (Germany) was elaborated by a comprehensive literature research and subsequently verified on the basis of selected model trails. Finally, recommendations for model geotrails were derived. The term “model” refers in this case to aspects of geoeducation as well as geotourism. Results showed considerable enhancements, but also the further necessity of improvements such as a stronger consideration of Education for sustainable Development (ESD), a better integration of the criteria of geo-interpretation as well as the opportunities and potentials offered by the to-date too scarcely used new technologies. Our surveys in the UGGp Swabian Alb largely coincide with the results of national and international research. Often it is merely small factors that differentiate an adequate and a model geotrail. Our checklist of criteria offers a good basis for these factors. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geoparks, Geotrails, and Geotourism – Linking Geology, Geoheritage, and Geoeducation)
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31 pages, 15131 KiB  
Article
Emerging Tools for the Interpretation of Glacial and Periglacial Landscapes with Geomorphological Interest—A Case Study Using Augmented Reality in the Mountain Pass of San Isidro (Cantabrian Range, Northwestern Spain)
by Carmen Rodríguez, Juan Sevilla, Ícaro Obeso and Daniel Herrera
Land 2022, 11(8), 1327; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/land11081327 - 16 Aug 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2166
Abstract
The application of Augmented Reality (AR), a technology that complements and enriches the live view of a place with virtual elements, is a relatively new approach that has been demonstrated to be useful as an educational tool for the interpretation of geological and [...] Read more.
The application of Augmented Reality (AR), a technology that complements and enriches the live view of a place with virtual elements, is a relatively new approach that has been demonstrated to be useful as an educational tool for the interpretation of geological and geographic features. In addition, it is a technology consistent with challenges related to enhancing the geotourism experience in geologically diverse terrains, and consistent with the sustainable use of resources in rural and natural areas. The focus of AR in this contribution is primarily for academic use. Here, we developed a pioneering AR project, at the San Isidro Pass, located in the north-west of the Iberian Peninsula, more specifically, in the central-eastern sector of the Cantabrian Mountain range (the Asturian Massif) and the northern slope of the Sierra de Sentiles. This is a high mountain area where the low incidence of Pliocene and Quaternary fluvial erosion has favored the preservation of a great geodiversity. In this case study, the approaches of geology and physical geography as subjects in official university studies have been used as a reference framework. Fieldwork was carried out to design an itinerary, or geotrail, of Points of Interest (POIs), that highlight the geological values of this montane region by visualising and interpreting nine glacial and periglacial landscapes using dynamic graphic resources (animated videos, panoramic and spherical tours and rotating and expandable 3D models combining conventional terrestrial photography and 360° photography, aerial photography, thematic cartography, etc.) composed by graphic processing software. The result is the design of AR tools which could be used by public and private entities as a product suitable for university teaching but also a work that could guide other geoeducational actions or institutional action for official heritage recognition. In isolation, these POIs function as ‘geosites’; when combined in sequence (POI 1 to POI 9), these POIs function as a ‘geotrail’ to highlight the diversity of glacial and periglacial landscapes and their sedimentary deposits; when viewed as an ensemble, POIs combine to be similar to a ‘geopark’ that emphasises glacial and periglacial landscapes and sedimentary deposits. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geoparks, Geotrails, and Geotourism – Linking Geology, Geoheritage, and Geoeducation)
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19 pages, 4654 KiB  
Article
Popularizing Structural Geology: Exemplary Structural Geosites from the Apuan Alps UNESCO Global Geopark (Northern Apennines, Italy)
by Chiara Frassi, Alessia Amorfini, Antonio Bartelletti and Giuseppe Ottria
Land 2022, 11(8), 1282; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/land11081282 - 10 Aug 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1617
Abstract
Popularizing endogenic geological processes that act deep on the Earth during geologic time producing orogenic belts requires a great effort. Consequently, geosites dealing with structural geology are surveyed with a lower frequency. Geological structures, however, may strongly control and model the territory and/or [...] Read more.
Popularizing endogenic geological processes that act deep on the Earth during geologic time producing orogenic belts requires a great effort. Consequently, geosites dealing with structural geology are surveyed with a lower frequency. Geological structures, however, may strongly control and model the territory and/or trigger the exogenous processes responsible for a specific landform/landscape. We describe here three geosites in the Apuan Alps UNESCO Global Geopark (Tuscany, Italy) to highlight their geoheritage values. We used the classical methods applied in structural geology to conceive and design three new interpretative panels of structural geosites using simple language and graphic schemes that facilitate the understanding of geological structures. The three selected structures were produced by different deformation regimes and at different structural depths. The first geosite is the boundary between the metamorphic and non-metamorphic rocks and represents the boundary of the Apuan Alps tectonic window. The second geosite is the spectacular Mt. Forato natural arch and the third represents a beautiful example of folds. Each panel is characterized by QR codes that allow the reader to access a short geological glossary, the Apuan Alps Geopark website, and a short evaluation survey on the quality of the interpretative panel. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geoparks, Geotrails, and Geotourism – Linking Geology, Geoheritage, and Geoeducation)
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40 pages, 69372 KiB  
Article
Volcanic Landforms and Landscapes of the East Carpathians (Romania) and Their Geoheritage Values
by Alexandru Szakács and Marinel Kovacs
Land 2022, 11(7), 1064; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/land11071064 - 12 Jul 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3173
Abstract
The Neogene–Quaternary volcanic range running along the East Carpathians in Romania, extends from the Oaș Mountains, in the north-west, to the South Harghita Mountains and the Perșani Mountains, in the south-east, as part of the broader volcanic province of the Carpathian–Pannonian Region. It [...] Read more.
The Neogene–Quaternary volcanic range running along the East Carpathians in Romania, extends from the Oaș Mountains, in the north-west, to the South Harghita Mountains and the Perșani Mountains, in the south-east, as part of the broader volcanic province of the Carpathian–Pannonian Region. It resulted from intense volcanic activity during the 15–0.1 Ma time interval, generating huge volumes of effusive and explosive products and a variety of volcanic edifices and primary landforms from large composite volcanoes to small-sized domes/dome-coulées/lava flows and volcaniclastic plateaus around them. The present-day landforms were shaped by various syn-volcanic deformation processes (such as volcano spreading), post-volcanic erosion of various degrees and types (including glacial erosion on the highest-elevation parts and relief inversion in the peripheral areas) and modern anthropic intervention. Developed on this diverse volcanic substrate, the present-day landscape shows a large variety of aspects due to further factors (original topography, elevation, vegetation cover, distance from settlements, anthropic activities, and degradation processes). This volcanic range hosts many geoheritage-relevant sites of various spatial extent (from hundreds of km2 to limited areas of a few 10 m2) and of protection status (from national parks, natural or scientific reserves, natural monuments, and protected areas to areas with no protection at all). Despite its high geoheritage potential, geoparks are still absent, geotrails are sparse, and geotourism is in its infancy in the East Carpathian volcanic range. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geoparks, Geotrails, and Geotourism – Linking Geology, Geoheritage, and Geoeducation)
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18 pages, 1895 KiB  
Article
Sites of Geological Interest Assessment for Geoeducation Strategies, ESPOL University Campus, Guayaquil, Ecuador
by Fernando Morante-Carballo, Bethy Merchán-Sanmartín, Allen Cárdenas-Cruz, Maria Jaya-Montalvo, Josep Mata-Perelló, Gricelda Herrera-Franco and Paúl Carrión-Mero
Land 2022, 11(6), 771; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/land11060771 - 24 May 2022
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2827
Abstract
The development of geoeducation generates a link between people, landscapes, and their culture by recognising the geological potential around geosites and their conservation. Geosites have important scientific value and constitute a way of generating learning tools for the development of geoeducation. The city [...] Read more.
The development of geoeducation generates a link between people, landscapes, and their culture by recognising the geological potential around geosites and their conservation. Geosites have important scientific value and constitute a way of generating learning tools for the development of geoeducation. The city of Guayaquil, the main port of Ecuador, has a valuable geological and mining heritage, which has been affected by population growth and its invasion of protected areas, causing the displacement of animal species to the point of possible extinction. The research aims to assess geosites in the surroundings of the Gustavo Galindo campus, using the Spanish Inventory of Sites of Geological Interest (IELIG, Spanish acronym) methodology to promote geo-education in the context of sustainability. The methodological process includes (i) the inventory and initial selection of Sites of Geological Interest (SGI) based on interviews with experts and the analysis of primary data from potential sites; (ii) characterisation and semi-quantitative geosites assessment using the IELIG methodology; and (iii) qualitative assessment through SWOT analysis to formulate geotourism and geoeducation development strategies. This research emphasises the importance of promoting geological heritage in an urban area. It shows geotourism attractions represented by five SGI grouped into two types: geomorphological and petrological. In general, the SGI are in the “High” category of the degree of geological interest, ranging from 170 to 236.67. In addition, the study identified the lack of a geological culture and natural values of the university campus. It allowed the proposal of protection strategies (e.g., a geoconservation plan ensuring that the number of visitors does not exceed the maximum load capacity), geoscientific dissemination (e.g., creating games, museums, itineraries, launching geoeducational souvenirs, or developing educational content using augmented reality) and a detailed research based on evaluating sites for sustainable development. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geoparks, Geotrails, and Geotourism – Linking Geology, Geoheritage, and Geoeducation)
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25 pages, 11526 KiB  
Article
An Assessment of Geosites and Geomorphosites in the Lut Desert of Shahdad Region for Potential Geotourism Development
by Rasa Raeisi, Iulian Dincă, Seyed Ali Almodaresi, Magdalena Petronella (Nellie) Swart and Ali Boloor
Land 2022, 11(5), 736; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/land11050736 - 13 May 2022
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2467
Abstract
In the fields of geology, economics, history, cultural studies, and ecology, tourism can be the basis for proper planning, for sustainable tourism management, and for economic development. The Dasht-e Lut is one of the most significant desert areas in Iran due to its [...] Read more.
In the fields of geology, economics, history, cultural studies, and ecology, tourism can be the basis for proper planning, for sustainable tourism management, and for economic development. The Dasht-e Lut is one of the most significant desert areas in Iran due to its exemplary desert patterns and world-famous landscapes, such as the kaluts and nebkhas landforms. Furthermore, it is the hottest spot in the world and can attract adventurous tourists, amongst others, from around the globe. The purpose of this study was to determine and compare the most suitable geomorphosites for better sustainable tourism planning using three methods of evaluating geotourism as proposed by Pereira et al., Pralong, and Reynard et al. The results show that the geomorphosites of kaluts, nebkhas, and Gandom Beryan had the greatest potential for different reasons. In addition to geosites and geomorphosites, the night sky was also demonstrated to have a high potential to attract tourists. Using the economic criteria of the Reynard method, all geomorphosites had similar scores. The familiarity of officials and tourism planners with the tourist capabilities of this region can lead to economic and cultural capacity building for the Indigenous people and the tourism industry. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geoparks, Geotrails, and Geotourism – Linking Geology, Geoheritage, and Geoeducation)
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Graphical abstract

20 pages, 6475 KiB  
Article
A New Way to Explore Volcanic Areas: QR-Code-Based Virtual Geotrail at Mt. Etna Volcano, Italy
by Federico Pasquaré Mariotto, Fabio Luca Bonali, Alessandro Tibaldi, Emanuela De Beni, Noemi Corti, Elena Russo, Luca Fallati, Massimo Cantarero and Marco Neri
Land 2022, 11(3), 377; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/land11030377 - 03 Mar 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2602
Abstract
In this body of work, we showcase a historic virtual geotrail on the eastern flank of the iconic Mt. Etna volcano (Italy), along a series of outstanding geological sites and features subsequent to an important eruption that took place in 1928. A geohistoric [...] Read more.
In this body of work, we showcase a historic virtual geotrail on the eastern flank of the iconic Mt. Etna volcano (Italy), along a series of outstanding geological sites and features subsequent to an important eruption that took place in 1928. A geohistoric account of such a major eruption, is of great interest, since it is the only event since 1669 to have caused the destruction of a town (Mascali) in the Etna region. Volcanologists, educators, the lay public, tourists and volcano explorers can now access a series of “virtual geostops” belonging to this virtual geotrail, such that “visitors” can virtually fly above these sites by scanning a QR code on the printed or electronic version of the present manuscript, as well as on the poster provided as additional material for this manuscript. The virtual geostops that comprise the virtual geotrail were developed using the structure-from-motion (SfM) photogrammetry technique from images captured by using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The main result of our work is the virtual geotrail, subdivided in two parts and composed of eight geostops, each showing outstanding examples of geological features resulting from volcanic phenomena that took place also during 1979. Our approach is designed to support classical field trips, and it can undoubtedly become complementary to traditional field teaching in earth sciences, both now and in the future. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geoparks, Geotrails, and Geotourism – Linking Geology, Geoheritage, and Geoeducation)
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16 pages, 4658 KiB  
Article
Community Engagement in UNESCO Biosphere Reserves and Geoparks: Case Studies from Mount Hakusan in Japan and Altai in Russia
by Aida Mammadova, Aleksandr Redkin, Tatiana Beketova and Christopher D. Smith
Land 2022, 11(2), 227; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/land11020227 - 03 Feb 2022
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2366
Abstract
UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere Programme (MAB) and the International Geoscience and Geoparks Programme (IGGP) are two themes in UNESCO’s Natural Science Sector. Biosphere Reserves of the MAB Programme are more focused on building international, regional, sub-regional, and ecosystem-specific cooperation as “learning places’’ [...] Read more.
UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere Programme (MAB) and the International Geoscience and Geoparks Programme (IGGP) are two themes in UNESCO’s Natural Science Sector. Biosphere Reserves of the MAB Programme are more focused on building international, regional, sub-regional, and ecosystem-specific cooperation as “learning places’’ for sustainable development with a focus on biodiversity. The IGGP supports research and capacity development in Earth Sciences and comprises two sub-programmes: the International Geoscience Programme (IGCP) and the UNESCO Global Geoparks Programme (UGGP). UNESCO Global Geoparks (UGGps) use a bottom-up approach to engage local communities in capacity building, via tourism development, with the common goal of promoting and protecting the area’s geological and cultural heritage. Here, we present the results of comparing local involvement from two case studies from Japan, the Mount Hakusan Biosphere Reserve and the National Mount Hakusan Tedori-river Geopark, along with two case studies from Russia, the Altaisky Biosphere Reserve and the regional Geopark Altai. In this study, we found more involvement by local community members in the Geopark than in the Biosphere Reserve in Japan. The Russian case studies show a complete opposite result with more involvement of local communities in the BRs, and less participation in Geopark management. The purpose of this project was to provide information to improve local involvement in both Japanese and Russian Biosphere Reserves and Geoparks through changes in education and management styles. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geoparks, Geotrails, and Geotourism – Linking Geology, Geoheritage, and Geoeducation)
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32 pages, 9198 KiB  
Article
Talking with a Volcano: Native American Perspectives on the Eruption of Sunset Crater, Arizona
by Richard Stoffle and Kathleen Van Vlack
Land 2022, 11(2), 196; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/land11020196 - 26 Jan 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 4232
Abstract
A new volcano erupted in the eleventh century AD in the San Francisco volcanic field, which has as many as 80 old volcanoes and 600 eruption cones all centered around Flagstaff, Arizona. This volcanic landscape has been a cultural center for Native American [...] Read more.
A new volcano erupted in the eleventh century AD in the San Francisco volcanic field, which has as many as 80 old volcanoes and 600 eruption cones all centered around Flagstaff, Arizona. This volcanic landscape has been a cultural center for Native American spiritual activities for up to 23,000 years. During that time, they have come to perceive volcanoes as earth navels and thus places where the earth is reborn. For this reason, the emergence of an active volcano, called Sunset Crater, drew pilgrims and resulted in the construction of ceremonial and support communities surrounding a place called Wupatki. This paper is partially based on a 2004 study funded by the U.S. National Park Service, which produced 80 ethnographic interviews with representatives of six Native American ethnic groups composed of 12 tribes and pueblos. The analysis is informed by a total of 23 ethnographic studies of volcanoes conducted with Native Americans by the authors. In all studies, Native American participants conveyed that they have cultural connections with volcanoes that derive from their Creation-based knowledge of the Earth as being alive and volcanoes being its rebirth. Traditional cultural information is critical to park management and compliance with various laws, regulations, executive orders, and policies so that park managers can better address tribal requests for continued access, use, and interpretation of park natural resources. Native Americans involved in our NPS ethnographic studies agreed that it is not necessary for the NPS to accept as true what Native Americans believe, but it is essential to tell in park interpretative settings both stories side by side with equal accuracy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geoparks, Geotrails, and Geotourism – Linking Geology, Geoheritage, and Geoeducation)
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Review

Jump to: Research

20 pages, 5589 KiB  
Review
Geoparks and Geotourism in China: A Sustainable Approach to Geoheritage Conservation and Local Development—A Review
by Kejian Xu and Wenhui Wu
Land 2022, 11(9), 1493; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/land11091493 - 06 Sep 2022
Cited by 23 | Viewed by 3137
Abstract
Geoparks and geotourism are relatively new activities within tourism. However, both have grown rapidly over the past decade. Geoparks, as an innovation for the conservation of geoheritage, play an important role in the development of geotourism. Geotourism has evolved partially in response to [...] Read more.
Geoparks and geotourism are relatively new activities within tourism. However, both have grown rapidly over the past decade. Geoparks, as an innovation for the conservation of geoheritage, play an important role in the development of geotourism. Geotourism has evolved partially in response to the need to minimize the negative impacts of mass tourism in geologically and geographically sensitive and/or im-portant areas situated in tourist environments, while at the same time providing a catalyst for sustainable rural development. China, with its vast territory and complex geological and geomorphic features, is often referred to as an open laboratory in geosciences and has 289 national geoparks and 41 UNESCO global geoparks so far. Currently, it is a leading country in the world in establishing and maintaining geoparks. This paper reviews the geoparks initiatives in China, as well as attempts to assess the compatibility of geoconservation and rural development within geotourism areas by exploring the challenges and outcomes of the geotourism development in China and by identifying and analysing the outcomes of geopark development. The results indicate a geopark is a sustainable approach to advancing geoconservation and promoting local economic development. The results further emphasize the importance of sustainable management in geotourism. Only when managed in a sustainable manner is geotourism likely to provide long-term improvements for developments in rural areas. Implications for geopark management and geotourism development are discussed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geoparks, Geotrails, and Geotourism – Linking Geology, Geoheritage, and Geoeducation)
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