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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. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary aims of this paper are to document the existing inventory and characterization of geosites in Ecuador, through the review of relevant public documents (articles, reports, etc.), and to demonstrate the potential of the country’s geological heritage. The methodology was based on (i) the compilation of documents about inventory and characterization of sites with geological or mining interest in Ecuador and (ii) the assessment of the above studies according to the description and value of the geosites. A total of 372 geosites (56 in a UNESCO geopark, 47 in aspiring geoparks, 158 in geopark projects, 73 in geological itineraries and 38 in other initiatives) were identified in Ecuador. Two hundred seventy-six geosites (74.19% of those inventoried) were evaluated with international methods, 65.94% of which (182) used the ILIEG method. The 182 sites fall into the high and very high geological interest categories. In general, we found that most of the reviewed studies meet the protocols/guidelines recommended for this type of surveys. However, some limitations were also detected due to non-homogeneous assessment criteria or the lack of detailed quantitative assessment. The study revealed that Ecuador has a sound knowledge base to address the geoconservation challenges that the country will face in coming decades. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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 purpose of this paper was to study the influence of cartographic scale and flight design on data acquisition using unmanned aerial systems (UASs) to create augmented reality 3D geovisualization of geosites. The relationship between geographical and cartographic scales, the spatial resolution of UAS-acquired images, along with their relationship with the produced 3D models of geosites, were investigated. Additionally, the lighting of the produced 3D models was examined as a key visual variable in the 3D space. Furthermore, the adaptation of the 360° panoramas as environmental lighting parameters was considered. The geosite selected as a case study was the gorge of the river Voulgaris in the western part of the island of Lesvos, which is located in the northeastern part of the Aegean Sea in Greece. The methodology applied consisted of four pillars: (i) scale-variant flight planning, (ii) data acquisition, (iii) data processing, (iv) AR, 3D geovisualization. Based on the geographic and cartographic scales, the flight design calculates the most appropriate flight parameters (height, speed, and image overlaps) to achieve the desired spatial resolution (3 cm) capable of illustrating all the scale-variant details of the geosite when mapped in 3D. High-resolution oblique aerial images and 360° panoramic aerial images were acquired using scale-variant flight plans. The data were processed using image processing algorithms to produce 3D models and create mosaic panoramas. The 3D geovisualization of the geosite selected was created using the textured 3D model produced from the aerial images. The panoramic images were converted to high-dynamic-range image (HDRI) panoramas and used as a background to the 3D model. The geovisualization was transferred and displayed in the virtual space where the panoramas were used as a light source, thus enlightening the model. Data acquisition and flight planning were crucial scale-variant steps in the 3D geovisualization. These two processes comprised the most important factors in 3D geovisualization creation embedded in the virtual space as they designated the geometry of the 3D model. The use of panoramas as the illumination parameter of an outdoor 3D scene of a geosite contributed significantly to its photorealistic performance into the 3D augmented reality and virtual space. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mehrangarh ridge (MGR) of Jodhpur, situated in north western part of India, is endowed with wide variety of Georesource of volcanic rocks of Malani Igneous Suite (MIS) of Cryogenian age and overlying Jodhpur Group (JG) of Ediacaran age belonging to Marwar Supergroup (MSG). MIS is the third largest, felsic, anorogenic, and terrestrial volcanic province of the world that witnessed Pan African orogeny related to the splitting of Rodinia Supercontinent. Unique and rare volcanic features of MIS at MGR have been declared as the National Geological Monuments of India with its interface with JG. The suite of fluvio-deltaic to coastal sediments of JG at MGR preserved text book style sedimentary structures with rich assemblage of oldest and complex Ediacaran fossils. MIS and JG altogether at MGR constitute the strato-type sections and outdoor geological museums in India that display geological processes of about 200 million years of Earth’s history. Such records of past tectonics, climates, and environments characterize the land-sea interaction and distribution in this part of Eastern Gondwana land that represent global geodiversity and provide eminent narratives for geo-education. However, these relict volcanic and sedimentary Georesources though formed site-specific landforms of MGR but have received less attention towards their geoheritage values. MGR is also endowed with many archaeological heritage monuments (HM) with additional cultural values that are constructed by indigenous Heritage Stone Resources (HSR) of JG. The HM represents old patronage of Jodhpur since medieval time that makes it a famous tourist destination of the world. In absence of geotourism applications and infrastructures in India, efforts are made under present study to provide suitable qualitative methodologies to identify geosites and assess geoheritage of educational and geotourism values taking MGR as a case study. Based on the proposed methodologies, we propose twelve geosites of geological, geomorphological, and archaeological types of geoheritage at MGR. These significant geosites of the Cryogenian—Ediacaran successions should be conserved as important geoheritage sites for geotourism through the proposed Geopark at MGR in Jodhpur. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Both worldwide and in Mexico, multiple regions with thermal springs exist and have played an integral role in culture and daily life in these civilizations since pre-Hispanic up to modern times. Thermal springs have become places of high cultural importance, and most of the times have been used for balneology or as baths of local people. Unfortunately, in Mexico a lack of knowledge about the possible direct uses of geothermal energy for all these resources exists, and the relevance of their conservation, their role in the local sustainable development, and their historical trajectory as elements of local heritage and geo-heritage. The objective of this work was to classify the geoheritage in Puruándiro. In summary, this work presents two aspects of this classification: (1) classification of geosites in Puruándiro using educational, scientific, and cultural parameters according to the first geothermal exploration in the area and local opinion via a perception survey and (2) design and presentation of didactic and multidisciplinary material in Spanish (geo-map, geo-guide, and infographics) for use in situ in which the geosites and importance of their geoconservation are highlighted. The main results of this work denote highly scientific, educational, and cultural parameters of most of the thermal springs with a great potential for the direct use of geothermal energy in addition to highlighting these parameters as part of the local geoheritage and main axis in planning sustainable development of the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Geoconservation and geoethics are two emergent domains in geosciences. During the last decade, both topics have increasingly gained the attention of geoscientists and the society, but the main geoethical dilemmas related to the conservation and management of geoheritage are not clearly identified yet. This work aims at providing an overview on the meaning and scope of geoethics and how it intersects geoheritage and the practice of geoconservation. Some case studies—many of which are under current debate and have a high potential as geoeducational resources—are presented for addressing ethical, social and cultural settings as well as dilemmas affecting geoheritage. We find that there are particular cases (mostly concerning the trade of fossils, and in particular the growing concern about activities that rely on amber from Myanmar) for which a clear dichotomy of views makes them much more problematic and complex. These cases deserve more suitable legal frameworks that help implement more balanced ethical standards and practice guidelines for geoconservation, guarantee human rights and needs in relation to that heritage and contribute to the advancement of geosciences. Particular attention is given to palaeontological heritage, as fossils are among the most threatened elements of the Earth’s diversity and are in need of more effective and statutory protection measures. In the context of geoethics applied to palaeontological heritage, and given the need of a clear understanding of what ethics in palaeontology means, a new concept—palaeontoethics—is proposed and formally defined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Huaynaputina volcano, southern Peru, was the site of the largest historical eruption (VEI 6) in the Andes in 1600 CE, which occurred during the historic transition between the Inca Empire and the Viceroyalty of Peru. This event had severe consequences in the Central Andes and a global climatic impact. Spanish chronicles reported that at least 15 villages or settlements existed around the volcano, of which seven of them were totally destroyed by the eruption. Multidisciplinary studies have allowed us to identify and analyze the characteristics of six settlements buried by the eruption. Tephra fallout and pyroclastic current deposits (PDCs) had different impacts according to the settlement distance from the crater, the location with respect to the emplacement of PDCs along valleys, the geomorphological characteristics of the site, and type of constructions. Thus, Calicanto, Cojraque, and San Juan de Dios, located beneath the main axis of tephra dispersal lobe due west and/or on valley edges, were buried under several meters of pyroclastic deposits, while the villages of Estagagache, Chimpapampa, and Moro Moro, located to the S and SE of the lobe, were partially mantled by tephra. The 1600 CE Huaynaputina eruption created an important geological and cultural heritage, which has scientific, educational, and touristic values. Geo-touristic attractions are proposed based on identification, characterization, and qualitative evaluation of four groups totaling 17 geosites: volcanic geosites, volcanic-cultural geomorphosites, and hot springs. Seven geological roads along with seven viewpoints are proposed, which allow to value the most relevant landscapes, deposits and geological structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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.

Brazil is a country that has a vast territory and contains many natural landscapes features and immense variety of rocks, shapes and structures of great aesthetic and scientific value. Geosites are areas that have numerous geological potentials, where these characteristics are notable from a scientific, didactic or touristic point of view. In this sense, this work carried out a cataloguing of geosites in the municipality of Conceição da Aparecida, in the south of Minas Gerais state aiming at the geoconservation of the geological heritage, the balanced use of natural resources and the identification of geosites. The lands of the study area belong to several units of the crystalline basement entitled Campos Gerais Formation, Carrancas Group, Petunia Complex, Varginha-Guaxupé Complex and Andrelândia Complex composed essentially by gneissic rocks. The development of this work consisted in the construction of a qualitative base on the studied area from the analysis of topographic maps, the use of GIS and later field activity, laboratory analysis and the elaboration of the results. In this way, the relationship between man and nature can be evidenced from the proposals for geoconservation and the identification of these areas for future generations. Thus, the integrity of nature and the best quality of life for man will be maintained. he scientific and local community will be informed about the issues of geographic space, enabling investments and better management practices in the area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The concept of geoheritage is related to places of geological interest, generally of aesthetic, cultural, socio-economic and/or scientific value. Many geosites are of karstic nature, because of their intrinsic beauty, their singularity and high geodiversity. Caves are among the most visited and economically exploited geological landforms. They constitute geosites as a whole, with their scenic landscapes, hydrogeological importance and the presence of bewildering natural rock and mineral formations including stalactites, stalagmites, flowstones and many other bizarre speleothem shapes. In some cases, a single speleothem, and the palaeoclimate record it contains, can be on its own of extraordinary importance to science. Once studied, these samples are often stored in research institution collections, rarely accessible to the wide public. In this paper, we report on the museumization of a stalagmite that has delivered a unique and exceptionally long glacial climate record from southern Italy, shedding light on the causes that led to the Neanderthal contraction and Modern Human expansion in this mild Mediterranean climate between 45 and 42 thousands years ago. The proposed museumization aims to demonstrate the potential of speleothems, after scientific application, in terms of educational and tourist resources. This approach allows to highlight the scientific importance of karst and cave geosites to the wide public, promoting their conservation and the valorisation of the studied cave-material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Seridó, an interstate region of the northeastern hinterlands of Brazil, which encompasses several municipalities between the states of Rio Grande do Norte and Paraiba, has a geological heritage resultant from a series of natural processes over geological time, with a remarkable petrologic, structural, stratigraphic, and geomorphologic variety. The region is characterized by Paleoproterozoic gneisses, Neoproterozoic metasupracrustal rocks, magmatisms ranging from the Paleoproterozoic to Meso-Cenozoic, and Cenozoic sedimentary rocks. Taking into consideration the uniqueness of this Geological Heritage, it was developed since 2010 a proposal to create the Seridó Geopark, which has been under development and in 2019 the territory was officially accepted as an aspiring geopark. With the geopark proposal also becomes necessary to develop geoconservation strategies. This paper aims to conduct different assessments of 21 geosites of Seridó Aspiring UNESCO Geopark regarding scientific value, educational and touristic uses, and the associated degradation risk. The work is completed with a classification of the types of interest, visualization scale, and relevance of geosites. This work provides solid information, including tables, graphs, maps, and statistic for decision makers to establish priorities for action in order to promote the geosites protection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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.

Biodiversity is an essential component of nature, relegating the aspects of geodiversity, which provides geological and landscape variety to a territory. However, the importance of geodiversity and its social, economic, educational, scientific, and technological impact on a region, are not well understood. This article measures the geoheritage values of Guayaquil, a port city in Ecuador, via surveys and analyses of variables, with the aim of proposing guidelines or strategies that promote the knowledge and diffusion of that geoheritage. Our methodology included (i) a review of historical landmarks of Guayaquil and their relationship with geodiversity, (ii) a survey and data tabulation, (iii) an analysis of the local population’s perception of the city’s geoheritage, and (iv) the development of geodiversity strategies using computer tools. Our results determined that people approach areas of interest because of each site’s biodiversity and the available information about the site. Once there, they can obtain knowledge about the city’s geology, geodiversity, and urban geotourism. Therefore, geoheritage is an essential consideration in establishing educational plans, initiatives, and promotion strategies. Furthermore, the identification of a city’s heritage values following geoeducation, and the recognition by society of the city’s geosites and their historical–scientific significance, will provide a basis for using geotourism in a context of sustainability.

Athens, the capital of Greece, is notable for its distinctive environment. Numerous archaeological and historical monuments contribute to the city’s cultural wealth. These cultural monuments should include geological monuments, which are part of Athens’ natural heritage. The Acropolis of Athens is one of the world’s most recognizable and admired monuments, renowned for its archaeological, historical, and touristic significance. The Acropolis Rock is also a spectacular geological heritage monument. This article is about the Acropolis monuments, which are of great geological interest in addition to their cultural value. In recognizing each monument’s unique geological features and quantitatively evaluating them, in terms of educational, touristic, cultural, and accessibility value, we document their special value in geoeducation and geotourism, not only for the public, but also for the scientific community. The potential for exploiting these geosites, in terms of geotourism, is very high and important not only for strengthening the local economy, but also for raising visitor awareness of environmental, geological, and geoconservation issues. However, the lack of understanding of geological heritage in relation to cultural heritage is underlined. The need for strategic educational planning and integration of geo-environmental education into school practice is evident.

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.

Having a national geoheritage inventory is essential to plan effective geoconservation strategies. Since 2017, the Geological Survey of Brazil (CPRM) has been carrying out a project aimed at the Inventory of the Brazilian Geological Heritage and defined state coordinations to propose indicative lists of potential geosites based mainly on the scientific value (SV) according to the GEOSSIT platform. For the state of São Paulo, which was the first in Brazil to have a systematic geoheritage inventory, with 137 geosites already defined, this study intends to analyze them to propose some criteria to select the ones to compound the national list. Fifty-seven geosites were chosen according to both SV (≥ 300, following the requirements of GEOSSIT) and representativeness within each geological framework (when SV < 300). We also evaluated the selected geosites in other national initiatives, such as SIGEP (nine geosites) and the Geoparks Project (five geosites). The GEOSSIT public lists show only three of the 57 geosites already registered, a low number considering that these registrations are relevant indicators for the national inventory. The geosites were also analyzed according to the main thematic classification (eight main thematic categories, with a large number in the petrology theme - 35.10%) and general geological context (73.70% in the Mantiqueira, Paraná, and Tocantins provinces and 26.30% in Emerged Phanerozoic Basins - Paraná, Bauru, and São Paulo), according to the parameters available on GEOSSIT. The sites were also evaluated according to typology, being 33 points, 22 areas, and two sections. Regarding the statutory setting, 30% are in fully protected areas, 36% in public or private areas with non-effective statutory protection (APAs, marine land, paleontological sites, etc.), and 34% comprise public or private areas with no protection.

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.

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.

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. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

World’s and Europe’s natural geodiversity is decreasing due to anthropogenic pressure. Thereby, the interest of tourists to the authentic geographical places with undisturbed nature and where the original culture prevails is growing. The Chorna Tysa River basin completely complies with these requirements and is extremely promising for the development of international geotourism in the Ukrainian Carpathians. The Carpathian region is a transboundary one, and the natural heritage of its protected areas is part of the Pan-European ecological network. The Chorna Tysa River is a tributary of the Tysa, which belongs to the middle Danube basin and, according to international agreements, must become a mutual environmental corridor for five European countries. However, local communities are not aware of the true natural value of their locality and do not support the projects on geotourism development yet. The planned ski resort construction is threatening the geographical heritage and causing complex ecological problems. The purpose of this article is to identify the most attractive geosites of the Chorna Tysa River basin (Upper part) with their special geodiversity as a basis for the development of geotourism and support for sustainable development of the Carpathian region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Flinders Ranges in the north and Mount Lofty Ranges in the south form a continuous highland chain extending ∼1000 km in eastern South Australia. This region corresponds to outcropping rocks of the Neoproterozoic to Cambrian Adelaide Rift Complex. The semi-arid ranges of the north with their historic mining heritage and the agriculture and vineyards of the south are heavily promoted as iconic natural and cultural tourism attractions, increasingly combining with indigenous landscape stories. With the exception of Arkaroola and Kangaroo Island, these regions are linked by the 600 km Heysen Walking Trail and adjacent Mawson Cycle Trail. Research on the Ediacara fossil biota in the Flinders Ranges has raised public awareness of geological history and the early evolution of life on Earth and developed into a multi-site Flinders Ranges World Heritage Nomination project. This is supported by the South Australian Government as part of its Nature Tourism programme to provide opportunities for conservation, education, tourism initiatives and local employment, all of which are aspirations of the United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO). South Australia has a World Heritage Fossil site at the Naracoorte Caves complex, which is a compact National Park with many staff and security for laboratories and underground fossil deposits. The multi-site World Heritage proposal for the semi-remote Flinders Ranges presents a very different approach for protection and public visitation. Following an emerging global trend for geotourism and developing geotrails, this paper proposes a 400-km loop geotrail across the region linking the nominated Flinders World Heritage elements with other 'Geological Monuments', listed State Heritage and historical sites. This strategy has the potential to involve wider community interest, engagement, support and involvement in its management. The concept would be a natural link to the Heysen and Mawson trails, both named after prominent South Australians with strong links to the Flinders Ranges landscape. It could be named the Ediacara Geotrail, Sprigg Geotrail or Arkaroo Geotrail after the indigenous dreamtime creator of the northeastern Flinders Ranges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Volcanic zones are important geoheritage sites. Active volcanic fields are of special interest because they allow to observe the complex and interesting stratigraphic relationships that often characterise their products and processes, as well as landscapes of unusual beauty. These geological sites enable visitors to appreciate the full complexity of volcanic activity and the importance of the geoheritage values that should be preserved. To ensure a correct preservation of these zones while opening them up to visitors, management plans should establish and consolidate a network of outcrops that allow visitors to get to know the area in question and preserve its geological heritage and the social and economic dynamism. In La Garrotxa Volcanic Field, most of which is protected by a natural park, a new methodology has been created to identify the sites of greatest geological interest and, above all, those that exemplify the diversity of eruptive styles and volcanic products and landforms in the area. Taking into account the most relevant management requirements (conservation and dissemination), in 1994 a total of 60 outcrops were classified as points of geological interest of the area. In this study we further present a specific methodology to select the most suitable sites for the preservation of the main volcanological features of La Garrotxa Volcanic Field. A group of 12 sites were selected from the initially identified outcrops and included in an itinerary as the most representative geological and pedagogical sites while also bearing in mind their ease of access and preservation and the possible impact of visitors (e.g. erosion). The following five criteria were considered when restoring these outcrops: integration into the landscape, consolidation of their geology, regulation of visits, the mitigation of risk, and the participation of the people that live in the area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Apennine mountain areas suffer progressive abandonment and marginality, although being characterized by an extraordinary richness in natural and cultural resources, and landscapes of great beauty. Therefore, their natural heritage, and especially their geoheritage, tranformed into geotourism initiatives, can represent an essential resource to support local economy andsustainable development. The present study illustrates the case of Matese Mountains (Southern Apennines), particularly rich in protected areas, including the Matese National Park currently taking off, which is characterized by a rich geoheritage, based on 59 geosites. Among these geosites, examining the specially built geosite GIS database, 16 geosites were selected to construct a geoitinerary crossing the Matese Mountains. The geoitinerary was delineated to optimally represent the major geomorphological and geological (especially geohistorical) features of the Matese area. The selected geosites were associated to a new procedure to assess their Scientific Value (SV) and Potential Tourism Use (PTU), and to confirm their suitability for the purpose. To illustrate the geoitinerary, a geoitinerary map, and illustration material such as descriptive cards were produced. As an overall result, the proposed geoitinerary represents a valuable contribution for the geotourism promotion of the Matese Mountains on which to base future studies and initiatives in this perspective.

Geological heritage or geoheritage refers to the total of geosites, i.e., areas of high geological interest in a given area. Geosites have a high potential of attracting geotourists, thus contributing to the development of the local economy. Assessing sites of geological interest can contribute to their promotion, as well as their preservation and protection. Greece’s geotectonic position in the convergent zone between the African and Eurasian plates has contributed to the existence of a considerable wealth of geosites, with the particularly active geotectonic region of the Ionian Sea characterized as a geoheritage hotspot. The purpose of this study is the selection of several such sites from the islands of Lefkas, Meganisi, Kefalonia and Ithaki and their assessment regarding their scientific, environmental, cultural, economic and aesthetic value. The most representative sites for the individual disciplines of geology (e.g., geomorphology, tectonics, stratigraphy and palaeontology) have been chosen, mapped and assessed, while indicative georoutes are proposed, which could aid the island’s geotouristic promotion to geologist and non-geologist future visitors.

Quantitative assessment of geological sites has been demonstrated as a consistent tool in order to delineate geoconservation strategies, especially for large areas with scarce resources. The working area is located in a vulnerable region in north-eastern Brazil characterised by low socioeconomic conditions. This area comprises an assemblage of 52 geological sites (geosites and geodiversity sites) representing the geodynamic evolution of the Ceará Central Domain, one of the oldest tectonic terranes in Brazil. In this perspective, this work aimed to identify priority sites for geoconservation actions. All geological sites were evaluated by a quantitative assessment concerning the scientific value, the degradation risk, the educational and touristic potential uses and the protection priorities. The assessments were performed by the method available on the GEOSSIT platform developed by Brazilian Geological Survey. Results indicate geological sites with high scientific value, predominance of geosites with moderate degradation risk and medium values for educational and touristic potential uses. Three sorted lists were defined considering only geological sites with high scientific value (geosites) and relevant potential uses. At the end, four priority areas were delineated for a detailed geoconservation plan in the centre-north portion of Ceará Central Domain

Despite being one of the smallest countries in Africa, the Kingdom of Eswatini (formerly Swaziland) is characterized by many locations, which are due to their geoscientific significance to be termed as geosites, and which are here in an overview presented and briefly explained. Each of them can be assigned to a specific scientific approach, e.g. as a landscape, a geological, a geomorphologic, an archaeological (prehistoric) or a mining heritage site. Eswatini yields remarkable landscapes like the Mahamba Gorge and the Sibebe Monolith, it exhibits worldwide one of the largest in granite formed caves (Gobholo), and possibly the oldest dated rocks in Africa (Piggs Peak gneisses), as well as beautiful and scientifically relevant rock painting sites (Nsangwini, Sandlane and Hholoshini) and three abandoned mines in the Barberton Greenstone Belt (Forbes, Ngwenya and Bulembu). The latter have contributed largely to the infrastructural development of the country. The geotouristic value of the respective sites is evaluated and commented, and it is assumed that in future these and other, here not yet mentioned geosites, may contribute to income generating processes for the country and the local communities.

Demnate commune and High-Tessaout valley are located in the Moroccan central High-Atlas. They have a great and much diversified geological and geomorphological heritage and exceptional landscapes of high mountains. The data obtained from the current work indicate that the studied area present high tourist vocation, in the fact that this territory preserves a large number of geosites linked to many witnesses fossils of extinct animals such dinosaurs footprints, outcropping rock formations of the Precambrian and Mesozoic. Further, it has many remarkable landforms and geosites such as canyons, natural bridge, spectacular waterfalls and scree slopes. The findings support that the area attracts many tourists every year. However, this number remains restricted due to the lack of tools of promotion and mediation of its geoheritage and also due to the low exploitation of the geodiversity. Regarding this situation, geotouristic routes represented on touristic map appear as an essential tool for geotourism promotion and as an efficient means of geosciences popularisation. This paper illustrates three geotouristic routes describing the main geosites in rural areas of Demnate and High-Tessaout valley. These geotourism itineraries can help to explain the high potential interest of the studied areas in geotourism terms.

The mountain regions incorporate some of the major ecosystems of the Earth. They also include most significant mineral, natural, agricultural and touristrecreational resources. A complex regionally-specific geographic evaluation is prerequisite for assessment of a perspective tourism development in a particular mountain area. The Southern Altai mountain system, being a part of the East Kazakhstan administrative district, is known worldwide for its unique natural as well as cultural heritage found across all the geographic and geomorphic zones of the territory. Its unquestionable touristic-recreational attractiveness reflects the unique natural – both geomorphic and biodiversity – characteristics, including orographic, hydrological, climatic, mineral and soil cover features, and endemic plants and wildlife, respectively, completed by many prehistoric archaeological monuments. In spite of the major biotic and geosites potential the introduction of a vital and sustainable tourism to the area is impeded by the insufficient, mostly unpaved road network, insufficient local accommodation facilities as well as the special boarder-zone entry regulations.

Visit to geosites as geotourists constitutes a distinct subsector of natural area tourism, a specialized form of tourism concentrating on economic utilization of the geological resources under the umbrella of tourism industry. Subarnarekha basin, of India with its various hierarchies of geosites provides immense possibilities for geotourism development. Diversified topographic features, both multi-cyclic and polygenic landforms are geotourism resources of the regions. This paper is an attempt to classify the geosites of the Subarnarekha basin from geotourism mapping perspectives with wider goal of assuring sustainability in the field of geoheritage management.

Central America is located in a dynamic region where tectonics and volcanism together with the tropical climate and its diverse vegetation have shaped the landscapes. Our main objective is to review the status of the geodiversity, geoconservation, and geotourism in Central America. We will identify the region’s geomorphic environments and geodiversity using classic regional geomorphology mapping techniques. Likewise, using touristic maps and webpages, we identify the most prominent geosites of different origin in Central America. Moreover, we will explore the national environmental policies, natural conservation systems, and tourism initiatives to promote their national geoheritage through geotourism. We found that volcanic, coastal, karstic, glacial, and fluvial geomorphic environments are the most common in the region. In addition, we identified 393 geosites of volcanic, coastal, karstic, glacial, fluvial, and archeological origin in Central America. The promotion of geoheritage, geodiversity, geoconservation, and thus the development of geoparks are excellent opportunities to promote sustainable development, sustainable lifestyles, appreciation of natural and cultural diversity, and the promotion of peace. These results may prove important to spread information about geoscience widely to decision makers on geotourism and conservation in each country and the stakeholders of the region. Geoheritage studies in tropical and developing countries such as those in Central America should be improved, and priority should be given to the geomorphological dynamics and strong anthropic pressures on their geo- and biodiversity to increase their income through geotourism, especially among the less favored communities and avoid affecting their already threatened natural resources.

In the last decade, knowledge of Cuban geological heritage has undergone a significant advance, highlighting the active and joint participation of academic, scientific and administrative institutions. The national inventory of geosites, their cartography and dissemination is being carried out throughout the country. At the same time, they are starting to be integrated into the management of protected areas as a main scenario for geoconservation. In the present work, we describe the general peculiarities identifying geological heritage in the National System of Protected Areas, grouped by two fundamental criteria: their delimitation according to types of protected area and the types of singular elements that can be recognized throughout the territory. Similarly, we present an analysis of the results of the national geosite inventory, specifically applied to the context of protected areas, which identifies an information gap taking into account the current management categories, the type of interest and places of high potential not included in the inventory. In this context, the theoretical model for integration of geological heritage is based on the methodology for preparing protected area management plans that is used throughout the country, based on a protocol for the selection of conservation objects of a geological nature, which includes conceptual and methodological aspects from various authors, adapted for Cuba and local initiatives and experiences. Finally, we confirm the need to update and modify the current methodology for the national geosite inventory, develop a training schedule to facilitate its application and involve technical personnel and managers of protected areas, including the geoconservation approach in all management processes and incorporating the selection of geological conservation objects and their integration into the management plans for each protected area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, various studies have been conducted on inventory and assessment methodologies for geosites leading to the implementation of geoconservation actions worldwide. The main contribution of this methodological proposal is an objective quantification of the criteria used for the assessment of geosites according to values defined during its design. It is based on four main stages, namely the initial inventory, the quantitative assessment, the degree of deterioration, and the values of usage (optional step). The second and third steps of the method are marked with newly designed values which allow sites to be prioritized according to the weighting coefficients established for each criterion. Its application was carried out in the Bou-Iblane region in the mountain chain of the Moroccan Middle Atlas. This made it possible to identify 11 geosites likely to be used out of a total of 56 inventoried geosites, including 1 with high potential and 10 with medium use potential. Forty-eight percent of the sites were filtered for the scientific assessment stage (27 sites out of 56), 27% of the sites were filtered for the degree of deterioration in order to retain only the least deteriorated (8 sites out of the 29 remaining), and 4.7% of the sites were filtered for the last step (1 of the remaining 21 sites). These results confirm the adaptation of the methodology to the region tested; the universality of its criteria suggests that its application is theoretically adaptable to all types of environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Geological aspects of certain sites can help understand the history of a region and reveal discoveries in regard to the planet. Geodiversity in situ is expressed in geosites, with occurrences of geological features of scientific value, and geodiversity sites, places where other values prevail, such as education, culture, and tourism. In addition, such locations can generate socioeconomic benefits for the local population through management based on education and geotourism. João Dourado is a municipality located in the central north of the state of Bahia, in Chapada Diamantina. It is inserted in the Irecê Basin, coinciding with lithotypes of the Salitre Formation, which presents carbonate rocks of a shallow marine environment. The municipality is yet to be the subject of a detailed study carrying out inventory and assessment of its geodiversity. The objective of this study was to investigate the geodiversity of the municipality through quantitative evaluation and classification of the relevance of geosites and geodiversity sites. In this context, the inventory and quantification of sixteen sites of interest were carried out using the GEOSSIT application of the Geological Survey of Brazil (CPRM). Five geosites were found, one of international relevance and four of national relevance, as well as eleven geodiversity sites, whereby nine are of national relevance and two of regional/local relevance. Understanding and disseminating the geodiversity of João Dourado provides a basis for territorial management actions by public authorities and brings the population into closer contact with geosciences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Five areas in Central Europe, each hosting abundant geological evidence of Carboniferous to Permian volcanic activity, are analysed in terms of their volcanism-related geoheritage and opportunities to develop geotourist product. One area is located in the eastern part of Germany (Geopark Porphyrland), two in northern Czechia (Bohemian Paradise, Broumovsko) and two in south-west Poland (Wałbrzych region, Land of Extinct Volcanoes). Four main geoheritage themes are identified: geology and palaeovolcanology, mineralogy, geomorphology, and heritage stone resources. Each of the regions considered in the paper may be characterized by its core geoheritage theme and secondary themes, less evidently exposed. These themes are optimal foundations to develop geo-interpretation and geotourism. Challenges include difficulties in relating rock record to long eroded volcanic landforms, provision of adequate solutions for mineral collectors and proper conservation of quarries which offer best insights into the history of volcanic processes from c 300 Ma ago. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Rabat-Tiflet area (north-western Morocco) has a complex geological setting and a high geodiversity, two reasons that justify the geoheritage inventory done in this work. The inventoried 13 geosites were quantitatively assessed and clearly show that the Tortonian/Messinian Akrech River GSSP Stratotype is the most important geosite in the area due to its high international scientific value. In addition, the majority of the other geosites are characterized by moderate scientific, educational, and touristic values and high degradation risk. Therefore, a geoconservation strategy should be implemented in this area by national and local authorities to protect and conserve this geological heritage. This study may help the development of a new geopark project in Morocco, a country where the geopark concept is still emerging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The work describes the methodological approaches implemented by the Geological Mining Historical and Environmental Park of Sardinia (Italy) in the process of identifying the areas, artifacts, and significant elements of Sardinia’s mining activity with significant historical, cultural, and environmental merit worthy of concrete protection and conservation actions. A methodological approach in which alongside the concept of context, necessary to define the identification of areas, artifacts, and significant elements of mining activity, additional criteria, and indicators were adopted to describe not only spatial and temporal aspects but also those esthetic, historical, and cultural. The adoption of these criteria and indicators has allowed us to start a process of safeguarding, protecting, and planning interventions that allow the application of specific rules, integral parts of the park self-regulation, for authorization procedures that vary according to the specificity of the identified themes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to identify potential geosites and show existing geosites in a young glacial landscape in northern Poland through a qualitative assessment of the local geoheritage. Three areas of diversified morphology and geology located within the extent of the last Scandinavian Ice Sheet have been selected as the research polygons: the north-eastern part of the Dobrzyń Lake District, the Lower Vistula Valley and the Kashubian Lake District. Three basic abiotic components of the environment have been analysed: geology, terrain relief and hydrology. This research is based on some specific materials including maps and photographs. Methodology of this research includes the inventory, characterization and assessment of selected areas. The final results are proposals for geosites of high educational value in each of the three investigated regions. For the north-eastern part of the Dobrzyń Lake District, the creation of a geopark has been proposed, and the geosites of the Lower Vistula Valley provide the potential for a geotourist footpath to be designed. The Kashubian Lake District is characterised by the occurrence of numerous glacial landforms and sediments as well as high denivelations and a concentration of erratic boulders. Therefore, this region also has the potential to be selected for valuable geosites and the designing of a geotourist footpath. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper analyzes the potential of secondary spatial data and online user-generated content. Special focus is dedicated to social networks and travel platforms, respectively their open application programming interfaces as tools for using third party platforms with the combination of open machine-readable data for raising awareness about geo and mining heritage. Existing good practise within harvesting of open access machine-readable data from the social network Facebook, the hybrid map service Google Places and the travelers' application Foursquare was used for constructing the current partial online image of the Zemplín geopark as a selected example area with a higher density of geosites and objects of mining heritage. Subsequently, based on the pilot results, the harvested data's suitability was analyzed for both tourism services' consumers' satisfaction and geosites' visitors' experiences' monitoring, and the creation of feedback for selected geological and mining heritage points of interest. Even though the current volumes of records representing geosites and mining heritage within the analyzed platforms are low, the results could help to strengthen the relationship between tourism service providers and geosites as an essential part of primary resources within the shared online communication environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Geosites, a precious and nonrenewable geosphere resource, constitute a wealth from educational, scientific, naturalistic and cultural points of view, capable of expressing an economic potential proportional to their tourist appeal (Bentivenga 2015). This study is part of an important methodological framework: Millennium Ecosystem Assessment (MEA 2005), an international project that defines and quantifies ecosystem services (ES) and assesses changes and their consequences on human well-being. The methodology, which is progressively becoming as a cognitive support aimed at the environmental sizing of territorial policies, is considered particularly effective in assessing the impacts of choices associated with different land use scenarios as well as to protection and/or valorization policies. Adequate tool development for sustainable governance passes through a planning activity based on the integration of ecological, economic and sociopolitical elements within an interdisciplinary framework, to which the ecosystem analysis is able to provide important evaluation elements (Cowell and Lennon Environ Plann C Politics Space 32:263–282, 2014). According to MEA (2005), ES are grouped into four categories: supply, regulatory, support and cultural services. Starting from that, this work contributes to build an interpretative model for the evaluation of a relevant part of the fourth class: the territorial tourist attractiveness of the Basilicata region considering location and spatial distribution of the 113 regional geosites surveyed by ISPRA. Two different GIS-based methodologies have been applied to the context of the Basilicata region: the first based on linear geographical regression and the second through the use of InVEST, an open source suite. Comparing the results is useful to improve regional tourist attractiveness connected with territorial distribution of natural resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]