Protecting Geodiversity in Eastern Canada

Abstract

UNESCO World Cultural and Natural Heritage sites, National Parks and other protected areas in eastern Canada represent a diversity of geomorphic settings. Protected areas of Earth’s terrestrial surface are assuming rapidly increasing importance as humans become ever more dominant as geomorphic agents. The initial practice of establishing and designating protected areas as either largely cultural (human) or natural has been superseded by more holistic understandings linking people and land, including geomorphology. Two hopeful signs are identified: the increasing involvement of Indigenous Peoples in the designation and co-management of protected areas; and the more explicit public educational function of parks through mechanisms such as Geoparks. Factors contributing to ongoing changes in eastern Canada’s protected areas include environmental, ecological and economic stresses; increased understanding of the role of protected areas in protecting biodiversity; international support for protected areas; and the increased effectiveness and expertise of environmental non-governmental organizations (ENGOs), scientific groups, and communities, particularly Indigenous Peoples.