Geoparks: Exploring New Trends in Geoeducation and Geotourism Perspectives

Dear Colleagues,

Geoparks, situated at the nexus of geology, education, and tourism, represent a distinctive milieu for the examination of Earth's geological heritage while concurrently fostering sustainability through a multifaceted approach. This approach encompasses the conservation of geological and ecological legacies, the cultivation of sustainable tourism practices, community involvement, public education, rigorous scientific inquiry, cultural heritage preservation, and extensive collaboration with diverse stakeholders. These comprehensive endeavors render geoparks exemplars of harmonizing tourism and conservation objectives to ensure enduring sustainability.

This Special Issue assumes paramount significance in the preservation of geological treasures and the advancement of sustainable tourism and innovative education within geoparks. It endeavors to present strategic frameworks for the enduring safeguarding of geological assets, the promotion of sustainable tourism practices, the introduction of pioneering techniques in geoeducation, and the incorporation of cutting-edge technologies, enhancing the overall visitor experience. Moreover, it aspires to stimulate interdisciplinary synergy and the dissemination of knowledge, tackling challenges confronting geoparks and motivating a global audience to cherish and safeguard our geological marvels.

Furthermore, this Special Issue endeavors to address existing gaps in the amalgamation of geoeducation and geotourism within geoparks, the promotion of sustainability in geotourism endeavors, the efficacious application of technology, and the cultivation of worldwide cooperation and knowledge exchange within the sphere of geological heritage conservation and geopark management. The thematic subjects of this Special Issue encompass the following:

Geoeducation Innovations;

Geotourism Sustainability;

Geopark Management and Conservation;

Technological Advancements;

Interdisciplinary Collaborations;

Global Perspectives.

Researchers, practitioners, and educators within the realms of geology, education, and tourism are cordially invited to contribute to this Special Issue, thereby enriching the discourse on geopark administration and augmenting our appreciation for Earth's geological wonders.

Prof. Dr. Hara Drinia
Dr. Paulo Pereira
Guest Editor

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• geoparks
• geological heritage
• geoeducation
• geotourism
• sustainability conservation cultural heritage
• community engagement
• sustainable tourism
• environmental preservation technological advancements
• interdisciplinary collaboration
• geological conservation
• education innovation
• geospatial technology
• ecological sustainability
• local communities
• geological wonders
• biodiversity conservation
• cultural preservation

Title: Promoting geoheritage in the aspiring geopark of Taburno-Camposauro (southern Apennines, Italy) with visual and performing arts
Author: Valente
Highlights: The authors attempt to summarise the activities developed in this aspiring geopark to make the geological heritage accessible to the public. Such geoheritage is composed of geosites, which nowadays represent real milestones on which field-based geological education can be conducted. To disseminate this knowledge, innovative communication systems are increasingly needed, capable of exciting even with visual and performing arts.

Title: A tribute to the youthful palaeontological studies in Gravina in Puglia of Arcangelo Scacchi (1810-1893), the first modern geoscientist in the Alta Murgia National Park (southern Italy).
Authors: E. Lippolis1, R. De Ceglie2, R. Francescangeli1, R. La Perna1, L. Sabato1, M. Tropeano1.
Affiliation: 1 Università degli studi di Bari Aldo Moro; [email protected] 2 Università degli studi di Bari Aldo Moro; [email protected] 3 Università degli studi di Bari Aldo Moro; [email protected] 4 Università degli studi di Bari Aldo Moro; [email protected] 5 Università degli studi di Bari Aldo Moro; [email protected] 6 Università degli studi di Bari Aldo Moro; [email protected]
Abstract: -

Title: Integrating Geoeducation into the Greek Educational System: A Pathway to Promoting Geoethical Awareness
Authors: George Zafeiropoulos; Hara Drinia
Affiliation: Department of Geology and Geoenvironment, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Panepis-timiopolis 15784, Athens, Greece
Abstract: In recent years, multiple efforts to promote geoscience and geoenvironmental awareness have highlighted the need for geoeducation. This article explores the importance of integrating geoeducation into the Greek curriculum for promoting a deeper specialization in geosciences and instilling a sense of geoethical responsibility. The method used is primarily based on a mixed strategies approach, where both qualitative and quantitative records are covered. A preliminary check revealed a lack of information on the conceptual framework of geosites and geoparks. Following this, a geoeducation tool was developed to provide the basic principles of geoeducation. The audit revealed a large increase in understanding and an additional desire for additional knowledge on geoeducational topics. To address current deficiencies, effective integration of the geoeducational tool requires comprehensive training of instructors and curriculum reform. Promoting a geoethical culture through school education is more than just improving the curriculum; it is a critical step towards a more informed, responsible and sustainable society. Today’s evidence shows that a lack of geoeducation has led to extensive gaps in knowledge and attention, limiting the ability of future generations to make informed choices about environmental and social problems. This paper advocates policy changes and educational initiatives so that geoeducation is firmly integrated into the Greek educational toolbox.