Evaluation of Geological Heritage of Geosites for a Potential Geopark in Binh Thuan–Ninh Thuan Coastal Zone, Vietnam

Abstract

This paper presents the first steps of an official geoconservation strategy for geosites in the Binh Thuan–Ninh Thuan coastal zone, one of the most attractive destinations in Vietnam. These steps consist of identifying of geological characteristics and merits of the site location critical to establishment of a geopark. Additionally, detailed assessments of the exceptional values of science, education, and tourism aspects that need to have a management plan for a potential geopark are addressed in this proposal. The impressive red sediment, including wide sand dune fields with tourism potential, asymmetric valley formations, rock gardens, and unique multicolored rock piles make the coastal zone considered one of the most attractive destinations in Vietnam. The zone is not just esthetically pleasing to citizens and visitors; it is of great scientific importance that should be valued a great deal. Despite some initial classification and study, the geological elements of the site have not been completely categorized and evaluated. Critical scientific inventory of the geosite still needs to be systematically carried out and prioritized. Furthermore, this area has become an interesting target of the real estate industry and pristine land including the critical information it holds may disappear in the near future due to developer pressure. According to the global framework for geological heritage of Dingwall et al. (2005) and quantitative assessment of geosites from Brilha (Geoheritage 8(2):119-134, 2016), the present work demonstrates that the study area displays a large number of potential geosites with significant geological heritage values. Eleven selected illustrative geosites are relevant to key values for science, education, and tourism with additional consideration given to degradation risk. All data are made available to enhance focus on the ultimate goal of the study, which is to demonstrate the findings as justifications for the conservation of the area as a potential Geopark.