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The methods and result of scientific studies are often difficult to understand for non-specialists due to their esoteric nature. Such lack of understanding means that such work is removed from our normal life experience, and thus, the applicability, interest and use of such work can be minimal. The communication of geoscience finds a natural conduit through geoheritage. A good example of an inaccessible technique far removed from everyday experience is anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility (AMS), an extremely useful geoscience technique with many applications, including finding strain and flow directions in rocks. We explored here how to make “AMS” understandable, using three different volcanic sites where the flow of molten rock is an important aspect, each situated in different types of geoheritage visitation context (wild trekkers, beach visitors, and walkers). The method we developed and tested follows the production of simple and adapted explanations, and is coupled with geoheritage inventorying and communication. We utilized the tangible geological features of outcrops, as well as intangible elements such as rock magnetic data, and conducted a geoheritage inventory using the modified geosite assessment model (M-GAM) to create narratives for popular comprehension. The M-GAM analysis has identified the geosites of the San Bartolo lava flow of the Stromboli volcano for the communication of AMS. Later, a simple and comprehensible definition of AMS and thus of the flow processes was created using a step-by-step process. This method could be useful for scientific studies to allow them to reach out to a wider public, using their input in the simple explanation stage to con-construct a narrative. This would provide a way for science to be more widely appreciated, useful and applicable.

The socio-economical importance of geological heritage (geoheritage) makes it a geological resource. New minerals are reported regularly, and their type specimens and localities are ex-situ and in-situ constituents of geoheritage, respectively. The present study focuses on the contemporary dynamics of these specific resources. For this purpose, the information about new minerals reported during the past five years is analyzed. The attention is paid to the distribution of the new mineral specimens (holotypes and cotypes) and their type localities by country; the transboundary replacement of new minerals is also considered. It is established that the new minerals-related geoheritage resources are accumulated in dozens of countries. The ex-situ geoheritage (specimens in museum collections) is represented twice narrower than the in-situ geoheritage (localities as geosites). About half of new minerals are replaced to the other countries and often to the other parts of the world. The registered patterns are explained by the peculiarities of the contemporary mineralogical research. The outcomes of the present analysis permit to make recommendations for the development of the optimal geoheritage policy.

Over the past decade, various methodologies have been developed to systematize, discuss, and propose measures for protecting and sustainably managing geological heritage. The Alto Ribeira Touristic State Park is a crucial component of the most significant network of protected areas in the State of São Paulo, Brazil. It has international recognition for its speleological heritage, which underpins its status as a popular tourist destination. This intensive touristic use necessitates solid management plans that ensure sustainable tourism while preserving the karst features. Therefore, this work refined the inventory of geological sites and provided a quantitative assessment of their degradation risk and potential for use. Three geosites and twenty four geodiversity sites were identified and assessed. The quantitative evaluation of these geological sites was conducted using the System for Registration and Quantification of Geosites and Geodiversity Sites (GEOSSIT), which was developed by the Geological Survey of Brazil. The application of this tool, designed for use in a vast and diverse country like Brazil, revealed the need for adaptations when applied to a smaller area such as Alto Ribeira Touristic State Park. This work helped establish management priorities for these sites and determine the most suitable uses for each geological site, providing valuable information for park managers. Such studies demonstrate that proper management of protected and conserved areas should always include geodiversity and geoconservation in their action plans.

Babušnica is one of the poorest municipalities in Serbia. Although it is a region with excellent physical geographic features that support the development of recreational and environmentally conscious types of tourism, its natural resources are almost entirely underutilized. The article first discusses Babušnica’s primary development issues before doing a theoretical examination of the ideas of geotourism and sustainable tourism and applying the Modified Geosite Assessment Model. To investigate the potential for their tourism activation, nine geosites were selected and evaluated. The evaluation ratings for most of the sites are very low due to the absence or poor quality of each type of infrastructure. The types of tourism that can be promoted in the region according to its geographical features are identified and recommendations are made to local and higher levels of authority that could form the basis for sustainable growth of the region.

This study proposed a semi-quantitative methodology for assessing the quality of the UNESCO Global Geopark (UGGp) websites. The study was based on mixed indicators (binary and ordinal) which were grouped into five dimensions (presentation, content, interactivity, usability, and special UNESCO information) and combined with multivariate assessment using Principal Component Analysis and the application of the focus group technique using Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) analysis to propose geocommunication strategies. The evaluation matrix, comprising 36 indicators, defined three levels of development (“high”, “moderate”, and “emergent”) and was useful for monitoring website quality and enhancing its territorial value for geotourism, geoconservation, and geoeducation. The results from 156 websites showed a predominance of “moderate development” scores (52.56%) and highlighted positive indicators, such as contact information, geotourism details, mobile compatibility, news, and the UGGp logo. This study also presented the potential of immersive technologies, such as virtual reality and 3D tours, for disseminating geoeducational content. However, there was room for the improvement in interaction and information standardization on UGGp web platforms to ensure effective communication that enriches the user experience.

The exploration and identification of new geosites in the Călimani Mountains region heralds a significant opportunity to establish Romania's first UNESCO volcanic geopark. This ambitious initiative aims to meticulously evaluate both natural and anthropogenic geosites across the area, highlighting their scientific, educational, and touristic significance, as well as their deep connections to the region's rich history and tradition. Utilizing an adaptation of the geosite analysis framework initially developed by Pralong, researchers in the country have tailored the methodology to better suit the Carpathian region. This study provides a detailed assessment of the criteria applied to the geosites in the Călimani Mountains, emphasizing their essential roles and underlining the need for their conservation through their integration into the Călimani National Park and the expansion of its boundaries. Through the quantitative and qualitative approach of this project, the goal is not only to protect and preserve these valuable geosites but also to promote them as sustainable and educational tourist resources.

This study focused on the assessment of geo-tourism potentials in Amhara Regional State, the northeastern part of Ethiopia. Geotourism is a newly applicable area of tourism development that is growing rapidly all over the world. Geo-tourism is geomorphic and geologic formations and characteristics. The objective of the study was to produce an inventory assessment for geotourism locations and give some tour guide maps for the peoples of the world through this media, as well as to assess their potential for tourism growth. The methodological approach for the geotourism inventory and mapping was GIS techniques and detailed inventories of geo-tourism locations. The results of the study showed that more than 20 geo-tourism locations were identified and mapped. The parameters used to assess the potential of geotourism sites were related to tourism and the country's scientific, educational, scenic, recreational, protective, functional, and ecological aspects. The findings of the study are not only helpful for the tourism sectors, academic institutions, researchers and visitors, but also make a great contribution to the country's income generation in general.

This paper proposes an unusual method for the dissemination of geological sciences and the promotion of geotourism: a scientific documentary, where a representative itinerary of geological and geomorphological evolution of the Umbria and Marche regions was presented. The considerations that led to the identification of the geological route proposed to the editorial staff of FOCUS TV are presented in detail. At each stop, there was an explanation by academic professors and researchers, mainly from the Geology Division of the University of Camerino (MC), who explained the outcrops in detail. During the episode, insights were also given into the anthropogenic frequentation of the epigean caves in Frasassi (AN), ancient places of frequentation and worship thanks to their suggestiveness and the sense of magnificence that they can elicit. In addition to the illustration of the individual stops, the article offers further insights into the geomorphology of the most important geosites depicted, all of which are in natural parks or protected areas and characterized by a high landscape value. The result was the production of an episode of the television program ‘Geological Wonders of Italy: the Marche and Umbria Regions’, which was broadcast in October 2022 by the Italian national Mediaset group.

Menoreh Mountain area is an area with very high geological uniqueness. One of the statuses that is contextually determined is a geopark because it provides a framework for conservation, education, and sustainable local economic activities as its pillars that are relevant to the agenda of economic development. It is necessary to characterize the existing geotourism potential in Menoreh Mountain area. This research attempts to identify and develop this potential using spatial and regional complex approaches. Technically, the method used is the Modified Geosites Assessment Model (M-GAM) combined with Hot-Spot Analysis to obtain spatial and non-spatial geotourism potential clustering. Clustering is done using K-Means Cluster Analysis. The results show that the existing geosites, spatially formed a cluster and can be used to determine the theme of the tourism activity to strengthen the geopark pillars. The development of geopark is hindered by several constraints including the division of administration and the disparity of each administrative region's capability. In general, a strategy to tighten the stakeholder and optimize the research is required to initially strengthen the geopark's pilars. It is also important to build a linkage of the geodiversity with the biodiversity and cultural diversity to enhance the significance value of Menoreh Mountain.

This study was conducted in Kouoptamo, located in the Noun Plain in Western Cameroon, with the main objective of inventorying and evaluating the geological heritage, and promoting the protection and geoconservation of geosites, and their use in geotourism development. Geosites in the region include dammed lakes (Petpenoun lakes), maars (Sanka Ndoumkain Maar, Tchoua Maar), scoria cones (Nkoambeng, Kechuentim, Ngouen volcanoes), a dome (Njigoumbé Dome) and a managed natural area (Petponoun Domain). Most geosites have a high scientific, aesthetic and educational value. The method used for the inventory and assessment of geosites in this work is according to Reynard, et al. (2016), which is more suitable for geological heritage on a regional scale. The scientific value in this method is composed of four criteria, namely rarity, representativeness, integrity and palaeogeographical interest. Each of these criteria is evaluated independently by a numerical score ranging from 0 (nil) to 1 (very high) in intervals of 0.25. The overall average scientific value of the Kouoptamo geosites is 0.77. Nkoambeng Volcano has the highest scientific value (0.88), followed by Tchoua Maar, Sanka Ndoumkain Maar, Njigoumbé Dome and Ngouen Volcano, all of which score 0.81, while Kechuentim Volcano and Petpenoun Domain score 0.75 and 0.69, respectively. The integrity of several of these geosites is preserved, mainly the Petpenoun lakes, the Tchoua Maar, and the Sanka Ndoumkain Maar. Geosites such as Sanka Ndoumkain Maar, Tchoua Maar, Njigoumbé Dome and the Nkoambeng, Kechuentim, and Ngouen volcanoes are representative of the regional geomorphology. Artisanal quarries (Nkoambeng Volcano) and industrial quarries (Njigoumbé Dome), as well as agro-pastoral activities, tend to degrade these geosites, which in general do not benefit from any legal protection. It is strongly recommended that geoconservation policies be adopted for these geosites, in order to preserve and develop these sites for their considerable geotourism potential while taking into account the current resource and land usage to find an optimum, sustainable strategy.

UNESCO Global Geoparks are recognised in the scientific community for their exceptional geological significance, but their potential to embrace and preserve cultural heritage sites is underestimated. This study delves into a pioneering approach within the Sesia Val Grande UNESCO Global Geopark (NW Italy), examining the integration of culturally significant sites into conservation and promotion strategies. To achieve a successful integration, we adapted a methodology used for the identification and assessment of geosites, incorporating the criteria of cultural significance, to assess the value of 10 cultural sites within the geopark and compare the results with the assessment values of 10 geosites. Moreover, we submitted survey questionnaires to geopark tourists to understand their interest in visiting both geosites and cultural sites. The findings reveal the remarkable scientific, educational, and touristic values of these cultural sites, which constitute an important resource for the geopark, to be enhanced and protected together with the geosites. Interestingly, the higher scientific value of cultural sites corresponds to increased visitor interest, which is in contrast to the trend observed for geosites. Through this unified approach, the monitoring of cultural heritage within the geopark is simplified and improved, enabling a comprehensive inventory and efficient administration. Moreover, by aligning visitor interests with scientific value, the Sesia Val Grande Geopark can enhance conservation and sustainable tourism efforts.

Geosite is one of the Ijen Geopark geosites in the Bondowoso region which has an initial design as a tourist destination which in its management only implements elements of tourism. Then after the Ijen Geopark was designated as a National Geopark and proposed to become part of the UNESCO Global Geopark (UGG), the status of the Wurung Crater, which was originally a destination, changed to a Geological Heritage Site (Geosite). This status change in its adjustment in the field with the concept of educational tourism is still not maximized. Geosite management needs to implement elements of tourism, science and education. The management concept is considered in accordance with the concept of educational tourism which includes tourism and educational activities. So the purpose of this research is to find out what potential the Wurung Crater geosite has so that it can meet the educational tourism indicators which consist of tutorial learning and field exploration. This research use descriptive quantitative research design and using survey/questionnaire methods and documentation studies in collecting data. The results of data analysis using descriptive percentages obtained a tutorial learning indicator value of 67.5% which was included in the "moderate" category and the field exploration indicator obtained a value of 75.8% in the "high" category. This shows that the Wurung Crater Geosite is superior in the preparation and provision of techniques, facilities, and learning media to support field exploration activities than in the provision of guide/interpreter facilities as well as the quality and quantity of guides/interpreters. But overall it can be concluded that the Wurung Crater Geosite has the potential for educational tourism which is included in the "high" category with the acquisition of an accumulated value of two indicators of 72.3%.

ABSTRACTThis research presents a set of geomorphological and geoheritage evidence from the Piana Crixia Natural Park, located in the northwest part of Italy. The Natural Park, which covers an area of just under 8 km2, was established for the conservation and enhancement of two geosites: the Piana Crixia mushroom, a 15 m high earth pyramid shaped in conglomerates representing an example of runoff erosion, and badlands landforms that crop out in the area, representing a regional uniqueness and characterize a landscape defined the ‘Langhe of Liguria’. The methodology includes bibliographic research, aerial photographs, fieldwork and analysis of the data provided by the Park's archives. The main maps were realized by combining lithological and geomorphological data with geoheritage elements and information about hiking and tourism. The 1:10,000 map represents the main area of the Piana Crixia Natural Park, while the 1:3000 map was designed to characterize the Piana Crixia mushroom.

ABSTRACTThis paper presents a novel geodiversity map of the Abruzzo, Lazio, and Molise National Park (Central Italy). The Park exhibits a wide range of geological-geomorphological environments of great scientific and touristic interest, offering unique landscapes and wild nature frequented by visitors year-around. All these features reflect a marked geodiversity and a valuable geoheritage, requiring protection and valorization activities. The geodiversity map that we present was realized following an integrated methodological approach, which includes and combines geological-geomorphological features, geoheritage elements, data from Park archives, and new field-based observations. In this framework, the map serves as a key outreach tool for the dissemination of the geological information of the area and for the promotion of its geodiversity through a modern, sustainable, and environmentally aware tourism in an highly frequented protected area.

ABSTRACTLiguria is a small region in Northwestern Italy which is characterized by significant and valuable geoheritage. The 1:250,000 map presented in this paper displays the 120 geosites of Liguria, officially approved by regional and national authorities, framed in the context of the geological landscapes of the region. The geological landscapes were obtained by categorizing and thematizing geological, lithological and geomorphological data in macro-units with similar characteristics. Protected areas (National parks, regional parks and natural reserves) and caves are also highlighted in the map. This work aims to give a better understanding of the Ligurian geoheritage, its relationship with the geological and geomorphological context, and the framework of protected areas. Thus, the present map can be a useful tool for developing effective geoheritage management and enhancement strategies.

The evaluation of geosites is an essential part of conserving the geodiversity and biodiversity of an ecosystem, as well as safeguarding the cultural, geological, environmental, and landscape wealth that a highly recognized geographical area possesses. In this context, Guayaquil, the pearl of the Pacific, is a city that registers, in its history and evolution, a binding relationship with the geo-biodiversity of the geosites that characterize it. This work aims to assess places of tourist interest in Guayaquil and its surrounding areas through a geo-environmental evaluation matrix to establish a sustainability proposal that promotes the geotourism development of the city. The methodology consisted of: (i) geographic registration of the chosen sites and present characteristics, (ii) environmental analysis of the sites based on the cause–effect method, and (iii) strategies for the inclusion of these sites into the geo-environmental and geotourism system of Guayaquil as potential geosites. The results demonstrate that Guayaquil has impressive geodiversity in several potential natural sites, obtaining highly representative values that reinforce the city’s natural diversity elements. Sites such as Cerro San Pedro and the Cerro San Eduardo, Pascuales, and Zeolites quarries have the most significant adverse environmental impacts. While places such as Cerro Azul, Estero Salado, Isla Santay, and Hornos de Cal (Bosque Protector Cerro Blanco), obtained positive values that highlight their environmental value, being of great benefit to the city and to nature. Furthermore, some of these places could be integrated into tourism development plans, and as potential geosites, they could complement various services and opportunities for discovering nature. Finally, all this can lead to a sustainable proposal for a Global Geopark project in Guayaquil based on the results obtained in this work.

The Quadrilátero Ferrífero is a mineral-rich region covering about 7,000 km2 in Central-Southern Brazil. It is known for its extensive gold and iron ore reserves, and for its historical cities. Many geological and mining sites related to gold mining and iron ore mining are in protected areas, and have been studied for preservation and use in educational and tourism projects, but at the same time, the region has suffered many pressures from mining companies and its preservation is in a constant state of alert. Recently, geoconservation studies have emphasised the value of geological and mining heritage, its importance for understanding the history of territorial occupation, as well as the geological evolution of our planet. For example, the Cauê Peak is the type-locality of the Cauê Formation, where six new minerals (arsenopalladinite, atheneite, isomertieite, palladseite, jacutingaite and palladinite) were identified in the AuPd deposits which were listed by the International Mineralogical Association (IMA), and where the systemic iron mining activities began with the creation of the first mining company, the Brazilian Hematite Syndicate, in 1909. Since the 19th century, many of these geosites have been the target of research and educational field trips in the training of geologists and mining engineers at the Ouro Preto School of Mines and Federal University of Minas Gerais. These geosites can be used to explain the geological history in the Archaean-Paleoproterozoic boundary of the Quadrilátero Ferrífero (QF), the depositional environment of banded iron formations of the Cauê Formation, and also through the Transamazonian (2.1-1.94 Ga) and Brazilian (650-450 Ma) orogenies responsible for development of AuPd and iron deposits. When observing the Cauê Peak, the Itabira Peak and the Curral Mountain, the different stages in the evolution of the anthropic landscape can be observed. The Cauê Peak has been transformed into an open pit mine, the Itabira Peak is surrounded from all sides by mining activities and the Curral Mountain undergoes processes for authorization of mining activities in an area that should be preserved.

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.

Batur is the first area in Indonesia that is considered worthy of being a geopark by UNESCO. This determination is an acceleration of the progress of the nature and culture-based tourism industry that helps the welfare of the surrounding community with the principle of sustainability. This study aims to examine the role of several parties in enhancing UNESCO global geopark in Batur Bali of Indonesia as well as promoting local economic welfare. The study adopted a qualitative study with case study approach to gain a comprehensive result of the phenomenon. The qualitative content analysis and narrative analysis was used to process various information. This study focuses in UNESCO Global Geopark Batur Bali in Indonesia as the first and most successful in creating a better economic welfare primarily during and post the Covid-19 pandemic. The findings indicate that the Penta helix model can be used to develop Geopark Batur Bali and Indonesia in general in which each party plays their role in this development tourism and local economic development.

The biome of the “Pampa” in Brazil is a restricted area located in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, that extends for 153.254 Km2 and constitutes 1.79% of the national territory. Unfortunately, it has been severely impacted by agribusiness activities. The present study will show a strategic importance for the environmental preservation of the “Pampa” geoheritage. The goals are to reset the borders of the “Pampa”, to identify geosites of scientific value, and to evaluate the risks of environmental degradation with the aim to propose geoconservation actions. The material for this study came from Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics, Geological Survey of Brazil and edited using the geographic information systems program ArcGIS - ESRI®. The evaluation methodology used consists of the systematic registration of geological sites using different scales and values, and by mathematical criteria showing the relevant value and the degrees of environment degradation risks. The results present three maps showing the borders (limits) of the “Pampa” biome, geodiversity, and geosites and in as well as frames and charts, which contain the scientific value and the degree of environmental degradation risk of the six geosites. This information will be useful in proposing a course of action for geoconservation such as: the creation of conservation units, geoparks and the updating of environment legislation. The proposed actions are fundamental for spatial planning, based on the best practices of sustainable development, as geoconservation, geopreservation and geoprotection still remain the major challenges of the 21st century.

This comprehensive study investigates the intricate interplay between geodiversity, geohazards, and anthropogenic influences within the Kratovska Reka catchment—an area distinguished by its remarkable geosites. Kratovska Reka, spanning a length of 17.3 km, serves as the left tributary to Kriva Reka. The watershed of Kratovska Reka, covering an area of 68.5 km2, is situated on the northwestern inclines of the Osogovo Mts in North Macedonia. Despite harboring exceptional geodiversity, the area lacks protective measures for its myriad geosites. Evaluating susceptibility to geohazards, including excessive erosion, landslides, and flash floods, this research identifies heightened risk zones, particularly in the valley of Kratovska Reka and its tributaries. A multi-hazard model reveals that 56.07% of the basin is vulnerable to geohazards. The study correlates lithological composition, relief features, and morphometric characteristics with geohazards, emphasizing the significance of paleovolcanic relief in resisting excessive erosion. Human-induced factors, notably deforestation and inappropriate land use, amplify geohazards. This research underscores the urgent need for geosite protection and sustainable land management to mitigate geohazards’ impacts. Additionally, it explores the correlation between land use practices and geodiversity, emphasizing the importance of responsible land management in safeguarding the geological and geomorphological values of the researched area.

Geoparks are territorial organizations, whose primary aim is to foster sustainable local development through the promotion of geoheritage, geotourism and geoeducation. Sites of significant interest from the perspective of geosciences (geosites), as well as the overall geodiversity of the territory, are the fundamental resources for geopark activities. The distribution of these resources in the geographical space of geoparks may, however, be uneven. We first review four cases of UNESCO Global Geoparks from different European countries (Czechia, Germany, Hungary, Portugal) where such a situation occurs, with consequences on tourism development. Then, we place particular focus on an aspiring geopark of the Land of Extinct Volcanoes in SW Poland, providing evidence of its geoheritage and geodiversity values. The aspiring geopark integrates a mountainous–upland terrain and a lowland part, the latter with much fewer sites of interest and, apparently, fewer opportunities to successfully develop geotourism. Recognizing the challenges emerging from the non-uniform distribution of resources and learning from established geoparks, we highlight various opportunities to encourage (geo)tourism in the less diverse sections of the geoparks. Implementation of the ABC (abiotic–biotic–cultural) concept could be particularly helpful, as could be various events organized in these areas.

The characterization of the elements of geodiversity, through different inventory and quantitative evaluation methods, in the past decades, has allowed the identification of the most representative sites of the regional geological evolution of the state of São Paulo. Between 2013 and 2016, the first phase of the inventory of the geological heritage of São Paulo state was carried out. At the end of this stage, 142 geosites integrated into 11 geological categories were defined, which were characterized and quantitatively evaluated according to their scientific value and degradation risk, to establish future management priorities. Between 2017 and 2019, in the second phase of the research, the data obtained in the inventory were submitted to an analysis aiming at the diagnosis of use and protection and the proposal of strategies for management and public use of these geosites. Currently, the inventory of the geological heritage of the state is composed of 143 geosites, of which, based on their scientific value, 57 were evaluated as potential candidates to be integrated into the inventory of the national geological heritage. Despite this, there are still few works that systematically apply the stages of conservation and monitoring of geological sites. In this context, this study presented the initial phase of the definition of a methodology for the assessment of the evolution of the state of conservation of the geological heritage and its application in the state of São Paulo, to subsidize future actions of management and preservation of this heritage. In this stage, 129 state geosites were evaluated based on three defined criteria. This evaluation preliminarily resulted in the identification of 10 priority geosites, which will

Karangsambung-Karangbolong National Geopark (KKNG) is located in Kebumen, Central Java, Indonesia, and was designated as such in 2018 by the Indonesian Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, based on recommendations from the Indonesian National Geopark Committee (INGC). The INGC made many recommendations before proposing KKNG as a candidate to become a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization Global Geopark (UGGp), for example, proposing the main theme of KKNG. This study aims to identify geodiversity, and assess and analyze geosites to determine the history and geological evolution of the geopark area, which are used to determine the geopark's theme. Geosite assessment methods using government regulatory standards in Indonesia demonstrated that KKNG has 41 geological sites: 29 geosites are in the northern area and 12 geosites are in the southern area. Furthermore, 12 geosites have high values (301–400), and 28 geosites have moderate values (201–300). Based on the assessment and identification, the northern part of the KKNG subtheme is the ancient oceanic floor and subduction zone, and the southern part is a conical karst landscape. The proposed main theme geopark is the best evidence of plate tectonic theory in Southeast Asia and karstic landscape, with its primary mission to realize a sustainable global geopark for the welfare of society.

The Monti Pisani massif (Tuscany, central Italy) is an isolated mountain relief known for its rich geodiversity, including a remarkable palaeontological heritage from the Palaeozoic, Mesozoic and Cenozoic eras. The Palaeozoic record consists of exquisitely preserved plant remains and rarer invertebrates of Permo-Carboniferous age, which testify to extensive rainforests and large swamps that thrived in an alluvial system under a humid, (sub)tropical climate. In addition to invertebrate shells, invertebrate trace fossils and microbial structures, the Mesozoic record features a diverse Middle Triassic tetrapod ichnoassemblage consisting of tracks of lepidosauromorphs, archosaurs (among which are the earliest dinosauromorph fossils of Italy) and nonmammalian therapsids. These vertebrates lived in a subsiding costal setting that stretched across an expanding rift valley under a subarid climate. The Cenozoic record features abundant fossils of terrestrial vertebrates (including spectacular members of the mammalian megafauna) from karst deposits, testifying to the manifold inhabitants of the massif during the glacial and interglacial phases of the Late Pleistocene. Overall, this long-lasting fossil record remarkably demonstrates how much the Earth’s environments have been changing through the Phanerozoic. The outstanding palaeontological heritage of the Monti Pisani area is in need of specific efforts of conservation and valorisation, especially with respect to the many palaeontological sites that punctuate the massif.

This work is aimed at illustrating one of the most engaging geoparks in Europe, the Gole della Breggia Geopark. By following its geotrail, the visitors can observe a great deal of features that encompass a wide variety of sedimentary, stratigraphic, tectonic and paleogeographic processes. Its contents are popularized by a comprehensive geotrail that encompasses 23 geostops, enriched with explanatory panels, which enable viewers to gain an overall picture of the complex processes that led to the present-day configuration of the outcrops encountered in the geopark. We have selected five significative outcrops, which we have regarded as fully-fledged geosites, and which encompass the whole 170-million-year interval, from Early Jurassic to Late Miocene times, during which the rocks of the geopark were deposited and deformed. We have performed an assessment of the five geosites, using the most common criteria that can be applied for geosite evaluation. The results of the assessment show that the most valuable geosites are the Lombardian Maiolica, and the Limestone with Pelagic Bivalves. All five geosites, thanks to a QR code added to each figure along the text, can be viewed as virtual geosites (VGs), integrated by 360° videos.

Ordovician tsunamis have been hypothesized for more than 25 years, but the related knowledge is yet to be systematized. The published sources bearing the pieces of this knowledge were collected in the course of the specialized bibliographical survey, and these pieces of evidence were summarized and interpreted with special attention to the spatiotemporal distribution of Ordovician tsunamis. It is found that the latter were reported from many places of the world (24 localities are established), which represent the Gondwana periphery, some isolated continental blocks, and terranes. Tsunamis were hypothesized for all epochs of the considered period, but the evidence is especially numerous for the Middle Ordovician. The degree of certainty of the interpretations of these tsunamis is chiefly moderate. It appears that only a tiny portion of Ordovician tsunamis is known, but the amount of available information is expected, taking into account the possibility of finding very ancient tsunamis. The outcomes of this study contribute to a better awareness of the world’s geoheritage resources. The established localities representing Ordovician tsunamis can be considered potential geosites, two of which are promising start points for further, field-based research.

Geotourism is a form of nature-oriented tourism devoted to the knowledge and understanding of landscape forms and geological processes; flora and fauna and cultural, historical and human heritage. The great geological and morphological variability of Avellino Province, also called Irpinia, in southern Italy makes this province of particular interest for geotourists. Irpinia has a unique set of geosites, sites of cultural interest, archaeological sites and natural parks. Additionally, since ancient times, it has been a transit route between the Tyrrhenian and Adriatic Seas and, as in all countries of the Mediterranean area, it was dominated by different races, peoples and cultures that contributed to developing its cultural identity and heritage, including its food and wine. Indeed, some Irpinian products were already known and commercialised in Roman times, including wine and olive oil. On this basis, we propose a map showing the characteristics of Avellino Province, including sites of geological, historical-archaeological and cultural value. The map will contribute to a better understanding of this province from a geotourism perspective and might guide tourists through knowledge of Irpinia.

Southern Siberia demonstrates significant richness of the geological environment, but its uniqueness remains known poorly. Four geosites represent sections of Givetian–Famennian (Middle–Late Devonian) deposits formed in the tectonically active zone where small terranes accreted with the Siberian continent. There, carbonate deposition in tropical conditions prevailed and rich ecosystems evolved. Three geosites are dominated by the unique palaeogeographical features (notable palaeobiogeographical changes, facies of catastrophic outflow from palaeolake, Frasnian/Famennian mass extinction, and palaeoreefs), and one geosite is dominated by the stratigraphical feature (regionally representative section of the Frasnian/Famennian boundary). Additionally, all localities are rich in Devonian marine invertebrates, and one of them is also a topographical expression of palaeoreef. The semi-quantitative assessment of these geosites implies that one of them can be ranked nationally and three others can be ranked regionally. All localities are well accessible and important for international research. It is proposed to use these geosites for a new geopark development that would facilitate geotourism growth in the study area and, thus, provide socio-economic benefits to the region.

Mauritania contains geodiversity that helps to understand its formation and geodynamic evolution by the study and assessment of selected geosites. The aim of this paper is to identify geosites with scientific value and their potential use in promoting geotourism. Eight geosites were selected in order to assess their potential touristic use. The results were obtained using the methodology of Brilha (2016), which show clearly that “the Guelb ErRichat” is the most important geosite with a value of 360. This work could change the classical background about tourism in Mauritania by proposing the geotourism in addition to cultural tourism. This offers more benefits and supports for sustainable tourism development.

Egypt, one of the “cradles of civilization”, boasts a history spanning thousands of years, and a richness of archaeological and geosites, unmatched by many other countries in the world. Abu Roash is located within Greater Cairo, 9 km north of the Great Pyramids of Giza. In the present work worked out to establish a Geopark in the studied area, the main question of the study is can the area be a Geopark with local community support? A detailed field work was done in the study and enables the authors to put a detailed map for the future Geopark could be established in the area, The study also attempted, by means of a questionnaire, to assess the knowledge and attitudes of different stakeholders with regards to the geoheritage and the establishment of a geopark. The data compiled were intended to help formulate a strategy towards the design and promotion of what would be the first geopark in metropolitan Cairo. We believe that this geopark would offer geoeducational opportunities to the scientific community and to the general public at large, and would help expand geotourism in Egypt. Geotourism in Abu Roash can easily be coupled with tours of ancient Egyptian sites in the same area. This would provide significant economic benefits to residents of Abu Roash City.

The Danube Wine Region is one of the most important wine regions in Hungary with potential for geological and wine tourism. The research focused on basic issues related to the Monor wine community of the Danube wine region and the Monor cellar village, such as the consumer attitudes of the potential guests of the Monor cellar village and the wine community, the tourist skills and the consumers' knowledge of local products and values. We tried to find answers to our research questions in a complex way with primary questionnaire research and secondary data collection. We found that Monor wine is good, consumer attitudes underpin wine tourism developments. Monor's basic wine tourism skills are good, with valuable elements from a geotourism point of view, but most of the additional tourism services are not available at a satisfactory level.

The Rarh Bengal of India has huge potential for development of geotourism due to its diverse landscape consisting of hills, dome shaped inselberges, tors, dams, badlands, springs, waterfall, ravines etc. The combination of vast dense forest and diverse flora and fauna with various geomorphic features has created a prosperous and complex geodiversity in the Rarh region. However, the potential of geotourism in the region has not yet fully developed. The main objective of this study is to emphasize the potential for geotourism in the Rarh region of West Bengal and to determine the existing status and geotourism prospective of geosites in this region. In this paper, the authors have proposed an inventory of geosites in the Rarh region and analyzed the vast potential of geotourism among them. A comparative analysis of the selected sites has been carried out by applying the Modified Geosite Assessment Model (M-GAM), which has exposed the most suitable geosites for the development of future geotourism. The M-GAM provided the significant assessment of both Main Values and Additional Values of the sites according to the status of each sub-indicator in the valuation model assumed by tourists. The results of this study reveal information about the major aspects of the development of each geosites and identify which sites need more attention and better management in future, so that the region becomes much attractive to larger number of tourists and becomes a well-known geotourism destination.

Located in France on the eastern edge of the Massif Central, the Parc naturel regional des Monts d’Ardèche, inscribed as a UNESCO Global Geopark in 2014, presents great geological diversity. This includes a sedimentary boundary between the Jurassic and Cretaceous, represented by limestone and marl. Fossils of crocodilians have been discovered in these layers, highlighting the diversity of past marine environments. Sites of interest and their fossils are today protected and valorized by different public and private actors working in synergy, notably through the UNESCO Global Geopark label.

Geoconservation should be incorporated in the discussions regarding climate change impacts on geoheritage degradation, especially in coastal areas that are directly affected by extreme climate events. The geoheritage degradation risk in protected areas of the Brazilian semi-arid coast was assessed using a quantitative method. A correlation with the tidal flooding hazard predicted with the climate change scenario was also considered for the study areas. The results show that most of the geosites assessed present a high risk of degradation due, mainly, to their exposure to negligence and inadequate public management regarding their uses. All geosites located in the plain areas are exposed to the risk of flooding by rising tides, which is associated with human action and leads to worrying scenarios regarding the loss of scientific and aesthetic values. The collected data support the need to rethink geoheritage management in protected areas and the mitigation of problems that may become major threats in conjunction with global climate change.

Formulation of the problem. The aim of work is to prove the expedience of using the beautiful localities with valuable geosites of the Kharkiv region as geotourism objects. Presentation of the main material. The most interesting objects of geotourism in the Kharkiv region are Izyum district, Gorodishhenska and Kozacha mountains, locality Kruchi in Zmijov district, Bajdaki cretaceous rock near Protopopivka village in Balakliya district, cretaceous mountains in Oskil and the Volcha river valleys in Dvorichna and Volchansk districts, locality Krutyj Log near Ruski Tyshki village in Kharkiv district. The objects of Izyum district are described in details. They are located in the south-east of the Kharkiv region near Izyum town, at the distance of 130 km from Kharkiv. Apart from picturesque landscapes, there are 3 remarkable geosites in this locality: Kremenec mountain, Protopivska ravine and lower part of the Grekivka river valley, which is also called the Big Kamenka outcrops. Kremenec mountain is situated on the territory of the Izyum town. The outcrops are located on the crest and western slope of this upland and are composed of Jurassic and Cretaceous deposits. The Big Kamenka outcrops and Protopivska ravine are located on the territory of the Kamenka village. The Big Kamenka outcrops are composed of Jurassic gritstones, sandstones, aleurolites, clay deposits and limestones. The Protopivska ravine is located in the core of Kamenka anticline and is composed of Triassic deposits. In the Izyum district different types of valuable geological objects have been discovered, namely: paleontological – Triassic flora, Jurassic fauna; stratigraphical – the stratotypes of regional suites of Triassic, Jurassic, Cretaceous sediments – Protopivska, Izyumska, Kremenecka, Priizyumska suites; mineralogical – quartz, chalcedony, calcite, limonite; petrographical – non-ordinary rocks as coral limestones etc.; tectonic – are visible folds and faults – for example, Kamenska anticline; paleogeographical – consists of geological evidences of different conditions of sedimentation – for example, the Oxfordian bioherms, Kimmeridgian lagoonal deposits; geomorphological – remarkable forms of surface, such as limestone rocky outcrops of Iziumska Suites; hydrogeological – the Jurassic springs (Big Kamenka outcrops); raw materials – Turonian chalk, phosphorite concretions in the Cenomanian sediments, which have practical value; mining history – remainders of chalk quarry on the summit of the Kremenec hill; memorial – prominent geologists' work-places and spots of findings of valuable geological materials, such as Cenomanian plesiosaur Cimoliosaurus bernardi Owen in Kremenec and others. Conclusion. The Izyum area contains numerous remarkable geological objects, beautiful landscapes and can be successfully used for geotourism.

The surrounding area of the Bine El Ouidane dam in Central Morocco, has significant potential for the development of geotourism due to its historic, geological, biological, and cultural heritage. However, these valuable resources, constituting a real opportunity for sustainable development of the local economy, remain ignored and underexploited by decision-makers. This work aimed to overcome this gap by identifying and selecting remarkable geosites in the area of the Bine El Ouidane lake, and then by proposing itineraries that help promoting this mountainous area. Two geoitineraries were developed based on the accessibility, touristic attraction and trekking opportunities. Eight highly attractive sites were highlighted according to their geological characteristics, scientific and contextual interests, and relevance. All these geosites present scientific interesting topics regarding sedimentology, stratigraphy, paleontology, magmatism, structural geology, geomorphology, hydrogeology, and karstification, belonging to the central High Atlas post-Variscan sedimentary and structural evolution. These sites can constitute a tool for the development generating work for the inhabitants to ensure their sedentarization.

Accessibility is an important property of geoheritage sites (geosites), which is commonly considered in their assessment. A new method, which refers partly to previous developments, is proposed to assess this property semiquantitatively. Inner (on-site) and outer accessibility are distinguished, and each is measured depending on the opportunities to reach unique geological features. Distant visibility and entrance fees/required permissions are also taken into account. On the basis of the scores, three grades of geosite accessibility (excellent, moderate, and low) are delineated. The proposed method is applied to 15 geosites of Mountainous Adygeya (southwestern Russia), and the outcomes prove its efficacy. This application also helps to establish within-site and territorial spatial heterogeneity of geosite accessibility and to propose some managerial implications.

Sustainable development represents a dynamic process of change which envisages territorial harmony and it enhances both current and future potentials to meet human and environmental needs. The purpose of the analysis is to assess the tourist resources and the related tourism activity in Corbu, a rural commune of Constanta county and part of the Danube Delta Biosphere Reserve, as well as to identify some directions for its ecotourism development. The study methodology includes the analysis of statistical data, the assessment of local geosites and a tourist evaluation of the area, based on a perception questionnaire. The main findings highlight the current characteristics of tourist resources, together with the main area problems in relation to their tourism use. The study conclusions and policy recommendations contribute to supporting the sustainable development of a rural area under tourism pressure.

Orania, located in northwestern Algeria, is characterized by a diversified and fascinate geology. Ten geosites, namely Nedroma granite, Souk el Khemis Messinian Reef, Tadmaya Plateau Basalt Columns, Sassel Beach Messinian Stromatolites, Tafraoui Canyon, Ouillis Quarry, Cedar Forest Numidian Flysch, Ain Ouarka Diapir, Ain Ouarka mid-Jurassic Reefs and Tiout Sandstones Rock Art, have been selected based to their scientific and additional values. These geosites have a relatively high scientific, geoeducational and pedagogical values, due to their uniqueness, rarity, representativeness of geological elements, exceptionality, scientific knowledge and geodiversity. Regarding geotouristic values, they have high aesthetic and moderate cultural values. This inventory shows the scientific importance of the area, which may be frequented by both native and foreign visitors, including undergraduate and graduate geology students. Some geosites are affected by a degradation risk and they are damaged by human activities. The main threat of this anthropogenic pressure is from vandalism, lack of care by local community and visitors, mineral extraction, urbanization and conflagrations. Finally, Management procedures, establishment of geoparks and organization of conferences and meetings must be planned and implemented in order to increase the sustainable use and geoconservation of the analyzed sites, which have all the potential to be recognized as a geoheritage sites and deserve to be declared as a National Geological Monuments.

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.

This review attempts to summarize contributions by authors who, in the last decade, have dedicated their efforts to making geoheritage accessible to the public. Geoheritage is composed of geosites, which are, nowadays, real milestones on which field-based geological education can be conducted. However, the COVID-19 pandemic in particular has made it clear that a new paradigm is needed; a series of tools must be introduced and increasingly used to make it possible for potential users, be they academics, students, or the lay public, to experience geosites from locations that can be thousands of kilometers away. All these have been achieved over time by a wide range of evolving techniques and advanced technologies such as GIS tools, virtual reality applications and further innovative technologies such as WebGIS platforms accompanied by appropriate navigation tools (VR headsets and thumbsticks). The viewers, in this way, are provided with a complete view of a virtual geosite, which enables visualizing its characteristics at different scales. VR technologies, especially, have revealed a high degree of satisfaction, based on feedback collected from VR geosite visualization events, both by scientists, students and the general public, and could be the forefront of geosite visualization and valorization in the near future.

The purpose of this research was to compare the geotouristic potential of the Sub-Tatra Region, expressed in the values of expert assessment of geosites, against the preferences of tourists coming to the area. Tourist preferences were evaluated by a survey in which tourists assessed the attractiveness of the types of geosites that can be admired in the area. The expert valorizations showed high and very high indices for most of the analyzed geosites. The highest of these assessment values show particularly high geotourism values for three geosites: the travertine hill with Spiš castle, the limestone hill with Orava castle and the travertine dome in Gánovce. A comparison of these results against average tourist preferences shows a moderate correlation (r = 0.4). Geosites of low and medium value according to expert assessments are rarely selected as the destination for equipment-intensive tourism. The sites with the highest combined valorization coefficients, i.e., hills with castle ruins, are of moderate interest to the surveyed group of respondents. The largest difference is in the assessment of the cave, waterfall and viewpoint geosites, where there is a great interest among tourist respondents, but the expert assessment index is low or moderate.

This work is aimed at reviewing the current state of the art in geosite selection, assessment, and communication. We first highlight the main papers that have defined paramount concepts such as geodiversity, geoheritage, and geosites. We then delve into the theoretical principles and guidelines that have been proposed over the last twenty years by researchers who have thoroughly illustrated how to individuate and assess geosites. In doing so, we illustrate notable field examples of applications of qualitative and quantitative assessments of geosites in places such as Serbia, India, Iceland, Ecuador, Sardinia (Italy), Egypt, Tasmania (Australia), and Brazil. The third part of this work is dedicated to illustrating a list (by no means exhaustive) of works that have tried to come up with innovative tools, strategies, and solutions to promote and communicate geosites. From our work, it appears that geosites can be extremely effective as fully fledged outreach tools capable of bridging the gap between Earth science and the lay public.

Las Loras UNESCO Global Geopark (UGGp) is geologically diverse, particularly in relation to water-derived features: springs, karst springs, travertine buildings, waterfalls, caves. In this work, the interactions between geology, geomorphology, structures and hydrogeology are analyzed. As a result of this study, a first conceptual model of the hydrogeological functioning at Las Loras UGGp is presented. The most plausible hypothesis is that the system is formed by two superimposed aquifer systems, separated by an aquitard formed by Lower Cretaceous material. The deep lower aquifer formed by the Jurassic limestones only outcrops on the northern and southern edges of the Geopark and in a small arched band to the south of Aguilar de Campoo. It forms a basement subject to intense deformation. The upper aquifer system, formed by outcropping materials from the Upper Cretaceous, is a free aquifer. It is formed by a multilayered aquifer system that is highly compartmentalized, constituting individual moorland and lora units acting as a separate recharge–discharge system. This model explains the base level of the permanent rivers and the abundant springs, important components of the water cycle and representing a contribution to the rich geological heritage of the location.

Despite intensive scientific research on geodiversity and geotourism, the development of a network of geoparks in Poland has been slow. There are only two geoparks here. The reasons include difficulties of an organisational nature. The existing network of spatial forms of nature conservation should be used to streamline the process of establishing geoparks. The areas of the potential geoparks partially overlap with the areas of the landscape parks. The study presents a comprehensive quantitative assessment of abiotic nature sites (abiotic nature reserves, abiotic natural phenomena, documentation sites, geosites) occurring in landscape parks (125 in Poland). Parks with the greatest number of such sites and the highest geoheritage value are indicated (10% of the total number). Within these areas, new geoparks could be established and tourism based on geoheritage resources could be developed. In some cases, landscape parks located within the planned geoparks feature a small number of geoheritage sites, which may indicate the occurrence of deficiencies in the system of spatial forms of abiotic nature conservation in Poland.

The exploitation of geoheritage resources depends on their accessibility. The latter is usually established for geosites, whereas reaching the areas where geosites concentrate also deserves attention. Here, a novel, multi-criteria, score-based approach for assessing the large-scale accessibility of geoheritage-rich areas is proposed. The study takes into account various information about external and internal public transportation, road infrastructure, local services (including accommodation opportunities), and general settings. This approach is applied to the Russian South, where there are three geoheritage-rich areas, namely Lower Don, Abrau, and Mountainous Adygeya. Using new criteria, these areas differ by their large-scale accessibility, which is excellent in Lower Don and moderate in Abrau and Mountainous Adygeya. It is established that the co-occurrence of geoheritage-rich areas and popular tourist destinations does not guarantee excellent accessibility. The findings of the present study seem to be important for the development of optimal geoheritage resources policy, as well as for planning research and educational activities, such as the currently realized geochemical investigations and the regular field educational campaigns in the Russian South.

Irpinia (Province of Avellino, Campania Region) is a historical–geographical region of Southern Italy inhabited in pre-Roman times by the ancient Samnite tribe of the Irpini, from which the name originates. This area is characterized by both low population density and high naturalness; located on the axial sector of the southern Apennine orogenic chain, the area possesses a complex hilly and mountainous orography, with predominantly agricultural and forest land uses. In this geographical context, there are many relevant geological/geomorphological sites, witnessing a wide geodiversity attributable to complex geological evolution and relief morphogenesis. The extensive bio-geodiversity has thus led to widespread geotourism practices. Irpinia is favored for its beautiful landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and typical small towns, often enhanced by quality certifications; moreover, geotourism activities are often associated with other forms of sustainable tourism. Starting from this geographical framework, the article analyzes eight attractive geosites that represent the geotouristic value of the entire Irpinia area well. The analysis was conducted using well-known qualitative and quantitative assessment methods. The results obtained, emphasizing the salient aspects of geodiversity, can be used in planning the usability of the sites and, more generally, planning for the Irpinian landscape in a geo-ecotouristic sense.

Framing geoheritage thematically is important to reveal its diversity. Field investigations in the western part of the Greater Caucasus orogen have allowed for the characterization of three localities representing palaeoislands of the Caucasian Sea, which evolved as a semi-enclosed, marginal palaeosea during the Mesozoic. The Gosh locality represents coarse siliciclastics formed on the cliffed shore of the early Induan (Early Triassic) island. The Lipovy locality exhibits conglomerates accumulated on the shore of the early Toarcian (Early Jurassic) island due to erosion of the uplifted crystalline rocks. The Shakhan locality boasts a representative section of cross-bedded sandstones deposited on the alluvial plain of the Hauterivian (Early Cretaceous) island. All these localities are interpreted as geoheritage points, which are parts of larger geosites. Taken together, these points constitute thematic geoheritage sites reflecting the existence of palaeoislands in all Mesozoic periods, which is essential for the understanding of the evolution of the Caucasian Sea during this era. These localities are perfectly accessible, but visiting them requires professional interpretation. The importance of the thematic geoheritage makes its adequate management urgent (particularly, maintenance of geoheritage points, the installation of interpretive panels, and promotion). A geoexcursion route is proposed to facilitate geotouristic exploitation of the characterized geoheritage sites.

The Appalachian Geopark (AG) Project is situated in three southern West Virginia (WV, USA) counties: Fayette, Greenbrier and Raleigh. They include the components of rivers, caves, and coal; as well as transportation modes, including rail, and country roads. Perhaps most importantly, AG includes the heritage of the people living in the Appalachians. West Virginia University is the entity responsible for developing AG and will hand over the leadership to local grassroots entities. With this project, the Geopark concept can be linked to a revitalization effort in southern WV, offer new opportunities to develop the communities, and forge a sustainable future. A preliminary inventory exposes nearly 100 geosites. The objective of this paper is to present some of the geosites and discuss future desired conditions. There are no Geoparks in the United States, and Appalachian Geopark is proposed to fill this gap.