UNESCO Global Geopark Research Articles

Understanding Geodiversity for Sustainable Development in the Chinchiná River Basin, Caldas, Colombia

Geodiversity, comprising both endogenous and exogenous geological processes, plays a crucial role in shaping the structure and functionality of natural systems, alongside its substantial impact on human well-being. However, the often-overlooked interconnection between geodiversity components limits our comprehension of geosystems. In the Chinchiná River Basin (CRB) in Colombia, located in the northern Andes in South America, we established criteria to differentiate geodiversity classes, calculated indices to understand the distribution of geological elements, and discussed systemic relationships. This comprehensive approach lays the foundation for a holistic comprehension of the territory’s structure and functionality. Our findings revealed the convergence in an area of 1052 km2 of 10 rock types, 7 slope ranges, 13 landforms, 5 drainage density features, 610.4 km of faults with 9 kinematic tendencies, 5 soil orders, 5 climate types, a 3328 km surface drainage network with 7 hydrographic orders, 1 underground aquifer, 4 areas with lakes, 2 zones with glaciers, 27 polygenetic and monogenetic volcanoes, and several thermal springs. This discussion explores the implications of various methodologies used to establish the value of the general geodiversity index while also examining the relationships between abiotic elements and their distribution patterns. This forms a fundamental basis for understanding the geosystem services of the basin in terms of regulation, support, and provisioning processes, as well as the culture and knowledge derived from geodiversity. These conceptual elements are indispensable for enhancing the sustainability of a region that is susceptible to the impacts of climate change. Furthermore, they serve as the foundations for the objective’s achievement, as set by the UNESCO Global Geopark project “Volcán del Ruiz”, currently ongoing within the region.

Characterization of Talcose Rocks Derived from Serpentinite—Pilot Study in the Ultramafic Complex of Cabo Ortegal (Spain) for Potential Use and Commercialization

Cabo Ortegal, in Spain, was declared a UNESCO Global Geopark in 2023. An ultramafic complex makes it a geologically exciting unit, where many research works have been carried out. Serpentinites, formed by the weathering of peridotites, dunites, and other ultramafic rocks, have been described in detail in previous works. Their role as a construction material has been elucidated, although due to their complexity and heterogeneity, the results of using these materials for construction are not always successful. Talcose rocks, related to serpentinites, can also be found in the complex, although it is difficult to distinguish them. Talcose rocks may be a resource to be explored and exploited in an unpopulated area. The use of talc in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and handicrafts makes it a material of growing importance. However, the asbestos and heavy metal content should be severely limited to prevent health issues. The goal of this work is to start the characterization of these talcose rocks before promoting their potential use in different contexts to support the economy of an underpopulated area of Spain.

Unravelling the hidden diversity of cave mycobiota in Thailand’s Satun Geopark

Karst caves are distinctive ecosystems that have limited nutrients, darkness, low to moderate temperatures, and high moisture levels, which allow for a diverse range of fungal communities to thrive. Despite their significance, little is understood about the fungi found in karst caves in Thailand. In 2019, we studied the cultured mycobiota from five substrate types (air, water, rock, soil/sediment, and organic debris) in two karst caves (Le Stegodon and Phu Pha Phet Caves) of the Satun UNESCO Global Geopark, southern Thailand. A cumulative count of 829 distinct fungal morphological types was identified, encompassing 319 fungal culturable were observed. Based on preliminary analyses of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequence using BLAST searches, the most common phylum among the fungal morphotypes was Ascomycota, harboring 282 species in 91 genera, 93.4% of which were distributed in the classes Eurotiomycetes, Sordariomycetes, and Dothideomycetes. The most common fungal genera identified in the two karst caves were Aspergillus, Penicillium, Cladosporium, Talaromyces, Xylaria, and Trichoderma, with 45, 41, 24, 14, 14, and 6 species identified, respectively. Discovering fungi in Thai karst caves highlights the extensive fungal diversity in the Satun UNESCO Global Geopark, implying undiscovered species, and emphasizing the need for comprehensive investigations in other unexplored Thai karst caves.

Publisher Correction: Bagh Dinosaur National Park Region, Dhar District, Madhya Pradesh: A Potential UNESCO Global Geopark

Publisher Correction: Bagh Dinosaur National Park Region, Dhar District, Madhya Pradesh: A Potential UNESCO Global Geopark

PALEOVOLCANIC KARING RECONSTRUCTION IN THE MERANGIN JAMBI UNESCO GLOBAL GEOPARK TERRITORY BASED ON PETROLOGICAL AND GEOCHEMICAL APPROACH

The presence of lava and pyroclastic sequences in the Karing River on the Merangin Jambi UNESCO Global Geopark territory provides information about the existence of ancient volcanoes. The absence of confirmed rock formations from the distribution of volcanic rock products that have been mapped nationally and also the shape of this ancient volcanic body, is an important reason for this research to be carried out using a petrological approach using petrography and XRF gochemical methods. Petrographic analysis is an appropriate method to determine the mineralogy consist, textures and particular textures, rock structures that are confirmed from field data. Meanwhile, a geochemical approach is used to determine rock oxide compounds. This method aims to reconstruct the shape and type of volcanoes. Research data shows that there are four lava sequences, with Sequence 1 having an entablature structure, Sequence 2 and Sequence 3 having a flow structure, and Sequence 4 having a vesicular-flow structure. The petrography results show that Sequence 1 and Sequence 2 are composed of phenocrysts and microliths of plagioclase, olivine, clinopyroxene, orthopyroxene. Meanwhile, in Sequence 3, hornblende is present, and in Sequence 4, the mineral olivine is absent. The results of geochemical analysis from the four lava sequences are in basalt rocks with 40%-50% Silica content, Calk-alkali basalt magma series, petrogenesis interpreted from the convergence of oceanic subduction beneath continent. The pyroclastic rocks found at the bottom of the lava sequence are evidence of the stratigraphic structure that makes up a volcano originating from the Karing Paleovolcanic, while the pyroclastic rocks found at the top of the lava sequence are believed to originate from other ancient volcanic eruptions. With the stratigraphy composed of lava and pyroclastic sequences, it can be concluded that this ancient volcano is a strato volcano type which is relatively sloping and almost resembles a shield volcano.

Role and Effectiveness of the Ciletuh-Palabuhanratu Geopark in Acceleration Achievement of Sustainable Development Goals Pillars of Economic Development

Geoparks are developed areas for sustainable development, both from social, economic, and environmental aspects. The Ciletuh-Palabuhanratu Geopark, Sukabumi Regency, West Java Province, which has been recognized as a UNESCO Global Geopark, is believed to be able to contribute to building the local community's economy with the geotourism activities it offers. It is hoped that improving the local economy will help improve the quality and welfare of people's lives. It will accelerate the achievement of SDGs targets in the pillars of economic development, especially SDGs 8. This research aims to analyze the role and effectiveness of the Ciletuh-Palabuhanratu Geopark as an agent for accelerating the achievement of SDG 8. The method used is a combined method, statistical descriptive and qualitative with structured interviews with business actors and tourism community members. The research results show that three indicators have been achieved: increasing the number of tourists, workers, and industrial linkages, but sub-indicators in industrial linkages, namely restaurants and travel services, have yet to be maximized. In general, the Geopark has been proven to function as a means of contributing to the achievement of SDG 8. Still, it requires particular strategies to increase growth in economic sub-indicators to achieve the SDG 8.

Southern Canyons Pathways UNESCO Global Geoparks: Strategies for Sustainable Development

Objective: This article aims to understand the process of setting up the GMCCS and its prospects for the sustainable development of the communities living in the territory. The following research questions are posed: a) How did the prospecting of UGGps take place in the LAC region? b) How did the process of recognition and approval of the GMCCS take place? c) How has the GMCCS contributed to the sustainable socio-economic development of the towns that make up the territory? Method: In order to achieve the above objectives, the state-of-the-art methodology was used, together with bibliographic and documentary research, to understand the conception of the idea of geoparks in the international context and their dissemination around the world. Results and conclusion: As a result, it was found that the territories that have been recognized, including the GMCCS, have proved to be effective and sensitive tools for the socio-economic development of their respective communities, although the prospecting of geoparks in LAC is still happening slowly and gradually. Research implications: UGGps (UNESCO Global Geoparks) aim to promote the sustainable development of local communities. The GGN (Global Geoparks Network) currently has 177 accredited territories around the world, ten of which are in the LAC (Latin America and the Caribbean) region. The research shows that the territory of the UNESCO World Geopark Caminhos dos Cânions Sul is moving towards promoting sustainable development in its territory.

The Impact of Health and Wellness Tourism in the Regional Economy of Estrela UNESCO Global Geopark, Portugal

Health and wellness tourism is currently an emerging tourist product in the Portuguese context, as it incorporates a great potential to adapt to the challenges that the present time imposes. Given the emergence of new strategies aimed at more sustainable tourism and community development, Serra da Estrela, a Portuguese mountain region classified as a UNESCO Global Geopark since 2020, has been the subject of studies about its tourism potential. Such studies aim to deconstruct the general perception, which prevailed for decades, of a tourist landscape closely related to snow as the main resource. At the same time, as Serra da Estrela represents a rural region in the interior of the national territory, it benefited from its attractiveness during the COVID-19 pandemic. In this sense, this research aims to study the importance that health and wellness tourism can have for the Estrela UNESCO Global Geopark in its impact on the regional economy. To this end, based on the study case, we analyze the thermal frequency in the resorts of the territory and indicators relating to tourist resorts with a spa component that exist in the region: accommodation capacity, the number of jobs, the number of overnight stays and the difference between TRevPAR and RevPAR. This research allows us to conclude that the thermal frequency has adapted to the challenges imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic, and the analyzed tourist resorts show resilience in the face of external demand shocks.

Disaster Mitigation Model for Sustainable Tourism Development at the Nam Salu Openpit Geosite: Insights from the Belitong UNESCO Global Geopark

This research aims to develop an effective disaster mitigation model to support sustainable tourism development at the Nam Salu Openpit Geosite, which is an integral part of the Belitong UNESCO Global Geopark. The qualitative approach method uses descriptive methods through case studies, namely the Open Pit Nam Salu (OPNS) geosite. The results of research conducted regarding the Open Pit Nam Salu (OPNS) Geosite in East Belitung revealed that the potential threat of disaster to this tourist site is very significant. The main factors influencing the vulnerability of OPNS Geosites to natural disasters include ecosystem damage due to unmanaged mining activities, changes in the landscape caused by intensive mining practices, and disruption of slope stability due to excessive exploitation of natural resources. In addition, climate change can also worsen the risk of disasters, including landslides and coastal erosion. Therefore, it is necessary to carry out structured disaster mitigation measures, including an early warning system, emergency management training, regular risk mapping, evacuation planning, development of a disaster information center, as well as education and public awareness programs to maintain the sustainability of the OPNS Geosite as a safe tourist destination. and sustainable.

Assessment of the Development of Geotourism and Ecotourism in the Pokhara Valley, Nepal

This project was conducted in Pokhara, Nepal, to find the potential of geoheritage sites and to supply avenues for sustainable development and education. We assessed five tourist locations on their potential for geotourism and seven sites for their ecotourism practices. The geotourism quantitative assessment and degradational risk assessment used a survey developed by Brilha (2016). A modified version of the questionnaire created by Baral, et al. (2012) was used to evaluate locations for their ecotourism ability in combination with the 5 general Principles of Ecotourism. The study appraised Pokhara for its geodiversity, geological heritage, and ecological conservation in line with UNESCO’s list of attributes for aspiring Geoparks (aUGGp). These areas had high scores in geological diversity and geosite potential that may benefit from increased resources to support overall geological education and conservation as an aspiring UNESCO Global Geopark. This study aims to provide resources for tourists at these tourist locations with information on relevant geologic morphology, lithology, eco-conscious procedures, and conservation mitigations, as well as geo- and cultural history. The infographics included in the supplemental materials also aims to educate tourists on how to better take part in geotourism and conservation efforts in the Pokhara Valley of Nepal.

LG and LGA’s Collaboration in SDGs Implementation of the Geopark of Sawahlunto City, Indonesia

This article elucidates the significance of collaboration between the Local Government (LG) and the Local Government Association (LGA) in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) implementation within Sawahlunto City Geopark, Indonesia that aims to explore the role of diverse stakeholders in shaping policy implementation in Indonesia, particularly in the context of Geopark tourism in Sawahlunto. The central issue at hand concerns how LGA can assist in surmounting challenges and bolstering Sawahlunto City's aspiration to elevate its status from a National Geopark to a UNESCO Global Geopark (UGG). This research employs theoretical frameworks and adopts a qualitative approach using the quadruple helix investigator model. Data collection was conducted through semi-structured interviews and the acquisition of information from primary and secondary sources, including Medium-Term Development Plan (RPJMD), Geopark documentation, Project Documents, and more. The research findings underscore the pivotal role played by UCLG ASPAC, as an LGA, in collaborating with LG to optimize the involvement of other stakeholders in advancing RPJMD, particularly in the realm of tourism aligned with SDG 11.4. Furthermore, this collaboration is crucial for aiding LG in realizing its aspiration to attain UGG status. Additionally, it emphasizes the imperative for regional governments with geopark potential to develop their regional assets.

Bagh Dinosaur National Park Region, Dhar District, Madhya Pradesh: a Potential UNESCO Global Geopark

Bagh Dinosaur National Park Region, Dhar District, Madhya Pradesh: a Potential UNESCO Global Geopark

Exploring Greek UNESCO Global Geoparks: A Systematic Review of Grey Literature on Greek Universities and Future Research Avenues for Sustainable Development

The relationship between humans and the environment in the modern world is challenging. UNESCO Global Geoparks are current holistic approaches for protecting and managing geographical areas that emphasise local communities and sustainability. This paper attempts to review the grey literature of Greek universities through their academic repositories, regarding the research field referred to as Greek UNESCO Global Geoparks from 2000 to 2022 and using the keyword “Geopark” to determine possible future research directions. Through the systematic literature review methodology, from 138 bibliographic sources, 28 were selected, which met the predefined criteria. In general, there is a growing scientific–academic interest in Geoparks, which mainly concerns the aspects of geotourism (n = 7), geology (n = 6), management (n = 4), and education (n = 4). Future research directions may focus on promoting the socio-economic and cultural aspects of Geoparks, investing in collaborative management and governance of Geoparks, facing climate change and environmental challenges in Geoparks, and enhancing Geoenvironmental Education in Geoparks. Such approaches may serve the United Nation’s Seventeen Sustainable Development Goals and cultivate cognitive and emotional bonds between local populations and the geoenvironment.

Ecological quality of a global geopark at different stages of its development: Evidence from Xiangxi UNESCO Global Geopark, China

Ecological quality of a global geopark at different stages of its development: Evidence from Xiangxi UNESCO Global Geopark, China

Petrography, Geochemistry and Mineralogy of Serpentinite Rocks Exploited in the Ophiolite Units at the Calabria-Basilicata Boundary, Southern Apennine (Italy)

A multi-analytical study on serpentinites in the ophiolite units (Calabria-Basilicata boundary, southern Apennines) was carried out on samples collected from a serpentinite quarry, locally called “Pietrapica”, which sitsin the Pollino UNESCO Global Geopark. Optical microscopy observations revealed the petrographic characteristics, ICP-MS was used to assess the chemical composition while EMPA mineral chemistry, Raman spectroscopy and X-Ray Powder Diffraction and were used altogether to trace the mineral composition of the rocks. Petrography revealed that serpentinites from Pietrapica quarry are essentially composed of serpentine group minerals, amphibole and carbonate minerals with lower abundances of talc and Cr-spinel. Raman spectroscopy and X-ray powder diffraction analysis clearly allowed to establish that carbonate minerals, serpentine and amphibole-like minerals, are the dominant phases, followed by 2:1 phyllosilicate. Electron probe microanalyses were carried out on different minerals in serpentinites samples including serpentine, amphibole, chlorite, clinopyroxene, magnetite, talc, quartz and titanite which are often associated with carbonate veins. Bulk geochemistry is dominated by major oxides SiO2, MgO and Fe2O3 while the most abundant trace elements are Ni and Cr. Chemical analysis showed that some heavy metals in the studied serpentinites such as Ni and Cr, are beyond the maximum admissible limits for Italian normative for public, private and residential green as well as for commercial and industrial use representing a potential environmental concern. Anyway, some of these heavy metals have been recently listed by Europe as critical raw materials and therefore, the Pietrapica abandoned quarry could represent a new resource considering their economic potentiality.

The development of geotourism and geoeducation in the Holy Cross Mountains region (central Po- land)

The development of geotourism in the Holy Cross Mountains region has a long tradition based on the scientific and educational geological values of this area. In order to evaluate geotourism resources and their development in three representative areas of Świętokrzyskie voivodeship – the Holy Cross Mountains UNESCO Global Geopark (GGp), the central part of the Holy Cross Mountains and the Kamienna River Valley – a review of the literature and statistical data, and field studies of geosites and educational units were carried out. The Holy Cross Mountains UNESCO GGp is a first-rate geotourism region, which plays a leading role in geotourism and geoeducation, promoting geological values and infrastructure development. The central part of the Holy Cross Mountains and the Kamienna River Valley are classified as second-rate regions. The remaining areas of Świętokrzyskie voivodeship, with its unique geodiversity and biodiversity, are still waiting for their geological attractions to be discovered and shared with the broader public.

Analysis of Conflict Control in The Development of UNESCO Global Geopark as Sustainable Tourism in Belitung Regency

This study discusses conflict control analyze in sustainable tourism development in Belitung. The tourism development analyze were obtained using a qualitative descriptive approach. Data were collected through direct interviews with relevant stakeholders. The results of the analysis revealed three main conflicts that underlie the issues in sustainable tourism development, namely land disputes, partnership miscommunication or lack of synchronization, and mining problems. These three points give rise to various sub-issues and biased policies perceived by the local community and tourism actors and managers in Belitung Regency. Based on the findings, the researcher attempted to outline steps or strategies, including in the aspect of people: (1) Having a mindset of change and maturity, as well as concern for the next generation; (2) Willingness to introspect based on received criticism, and (3) Openness to criticism and suggestions. In the aspect of the planet: (1) Conducting education and training for the local community to raise awareness of tourism in each tourism destination. In the aspect of prosperity: (1) Establishing standardized indicators for income, price regulations, and well-structured business permits, accompanied by intensive supervision; (2) Supporting sustainable essence of alternative MSME funds; (3) Establishing government institutions to determine and regulate prices to remain competitive. In the aspect of peace: (1) Firmness in regulating various policies and avoiding overlapping.

Integrating Cultural Sites into the Sesia Val Grande UNESCO Global Geopark (North-West Italy): Methodologies for Monitoring and Enhancing Cultural Heritage

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.

Manajemen Perancangan Taman Budaya Banglipuran, Melikan, Rongkop, Gunungkidul

Melikan Village area is part of Pegunungan Sewu area. This area is included in a national protected area and has been part of UNESCO's Global Geopark Network since 2015. As a karst areas, this area has potential natural resources, human resources, and socio-economic-culture. This research has mapped all of these potentials to become the basis for designing the Taman Budaya Banglipuran which is the focus of the development of the Melikan Village area. The approach used in this study is action research which is carried out in three stages. The research phase are: mapping, planning and development. The mapping is digital using Quantum GIS. Planning is carried out with FGD. And development includes area planning with 3D visuals. This research aims to assist the community in developing the Banglipuran area by producing area designs.

Geodiversity and Geological Treasure of Tabas UNESCO Global Geopark for Geotourism Development, New UGGp from Iran

Geodiversity and Geological Treasure of Tabas UNESCO Global Geopark for Geotourism Development, New UGGp from Iran