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Geoparks: Exploring New Trends in Geoeducation and Geotourism Perspectives
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Geoparks: Exploring New Trends in Geoeducation and Geotourism Perspectives

A special issue of Geosciences (ISSN 2076-3263). This special issue belongs to the section "Geoheritage, Geoparks and Geotourism".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 March 2025 | Viewed by 6164

Special Issue Editors

Prof. Dr. Hara Drinia

E-Mail Website1 Website2
Guest Editor
Department of Geology and Geoenvironment, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 15772 Athens, Greece
Interests: palaeoecology; sedimentology; palaeoenvironment; geoheritage; geotourism; geoconservation; geoeducation
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Paulo Pereira

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Institute of Earth Sciences, Campus Gualtar, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
Interests: geodiversity; geoheritage; geomorphology
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

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

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Geosciences is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 1800 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • 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

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Published Papers (5 papers)

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34 pages, 21637 KiB  
Article
Prospects of Creating a Geopark in the Ulytau Region of Kazakhstan: Geoheritage and Geotourism Potential
by Saida Nigmatova, Tatyana Pirogova, Ilnura Madiyarova, Alma Bekbotaeva, Arman Seydali, Bakhtyar Kozhakhmet and Balzhan Kalibek
Geosciences 2024, 14(12), 355; https://doi.org/10.3390/geosciences14120355 - 19 Dec 2024
Viewed by 669
Abstract
This article is devoted to the study of geoheritage objects and the scientific justification for the creation of a geopark in the Ulytau region of Central Kazakhstan. This region is the largest copper-bearing province in the world and has a unique natural and [...] Read more.
This article is devoted to the study of geoheritage objects and the scientific justification for the creation of a geopark in the Ulytau region of Central Kazakhstan. This region is the largest copper-bearing province in the world and has a unique natural and cultural heritage. The purpose of this article is to show the scientific and tourist significance of geoheritage objects of the potential Ulytau Geopark. The geological history of this area tells about no less than 500 million years of the planet’s development. Geological, historical and sacred objects make this area extremely interesting for the development of geotourism and the creation of geoparks as a basis for the sustainable development of the area. The research methods included a bibliographic method, which made it possible to collect information on the geoheritage of the territory; field survey techniques; and methods based on the evaluation of the criteria for eligibility for UNESCO Geoparks. The methodology included five main blocks of assessment (geology and landscape, structure and management model, interpretation and environmental education, geotourism and sustainable development at the regional level) and represents an integrated interdisciplinary approach to present regional features in the context of the geological heritage of the world. Despite the length of time geology has been studied and the resources actively used, geoheritage sites have not been previously studied and characterised. Geoparks in Kazakhstan are at an early stage of development and this article aims to show the potential for establishing geoparks in the Ulytau region. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geoparks: Exploring New Trends in Geoeducation and Geotourism Perspectives)
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27 pages, 4343 KiB  
Article
Evaluating the Impact of Geoeducation Programs on Student Learning and Geoheritage Awareness in Greece
by George Zafeiropoulos and Hara Drinia
Geosciences 2024, 14(12), 348; https://doi.org/10.3390/geosciences14120348 - 18 Dec 2024
Viewed by 708
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 understanding of geosciences. The method used is primarily based on [...] Read more.
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 understanding of geosciences. The method used is primarily based on a mixed-methods approach, covering both qualitative and quantitative data. A preliminary assessment revealed a lack of information on the conceptual framework of geosites and geoparks. Following this, a geoeducation tool was developed to introduce the basic principles of geoeducation. The evaluation showed a significant increase in understanding and a heightened desire for further knowledge on geoeducational topics. To address current deficiencies, effective integration of this geoeducational tool requires comprehensive teacher training and curriculum reform. Promoting geoeducation through school programs is critical for creating a more informed, responsible, and sustainable society. This paper advocates policy changes and educational initiatives to firmly integrate geoeducation into the Greek educational system. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geoparks: Exploring New Trends in Geoeducation and Geotourism Perspectives)
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21 pages, 12557 KiB  
Article
From Geohistory to the Future: A Tribute to the Youthful Palaeontological Studies at Gravina in Puglia of Arcangelo Scacchi (1810–1893), the First Modern Geoscientist in the MurGEopark (aUGGp, Southern Italy)
by Elio Lippolis, Rossella De Ceglie, Ruggero Francescangeli, Rafael La Perna, Luisa Sabato and Marcello Tropeano
Geosciences 2024, 14(12), 343; https://doi.org/10.3390/geosciences14120343 - 12 Dec 2024
Viewed by 1043
Abstract
Arcangelo Scacchi (1810–1893) one of the greatest Italian geoscientists known worldwide, especially for his contributions in the fields of mineralogy and volcanology, dedicated his early years to malacological and zoological works. This paper aims to pay homage to a lesser-known side of the [...] Read more.
Arcangelo Scacchi (1810–1893) one of the greatest Italian geoscientists known worldwide, especially for his contributions in the fields of mineralogy and volcanology, dedicated his early years to malacological and zoological works. This paper aims to pay homage to a lesser-known side of the scientist, focusing on a malacological work related to fossils from his hometown, Gravina, in Puglia (southern Italy), located within the boundaries of the MurGEopark, which is aspiring to become a UNESCO Global Geopark (aUGGp), and at the border of Parco Nazionale dell’Alta Murgia (Alta Murgia National Park). Among others, Arcangelo Scacchi described 16 new species of molluscs but his precious collection, hosted in Naples, in the Real Museo Mineralogico (Royal Mineralogical Museum), now Museo di Paleontologia dell’Università di Napoli Federico II (Museum of Palaeontology of the University of Naples Federico II), was partly lost. In recent years, research has allowed the resampling of some species he described for the first time in 1835. Starting from this material, the figure of Scacchi was highlighted to the public through the temporal exhibitions and the use of 3D digital models of these resampled fossils. This activity represents: (i) a tribute to the first modern geoscientist who worked in the area of the MurGEopark, (ii) an instrument to preserve palaeontological remains of international importance, and (iii) a public opportunity to know this kind of geocultural heritage enriching the potential examples of (geo)dissemination in the MurGEopark. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geoparks: Exploring New Trends in Geoeducation and Geotourism Perspectives)
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21 pages, 7879 KiB  
Article
Promoting Geoheritage in the Aspiring Geopark of Taburno-Camposauro (Southern Apennines, Italy) with Innovative Tools
by Pietro Palazzo and Alessio Valente
Geosciences 2024, 14(12), 317; https://doi.org/10.3390/geosciences14120317 - 23 Nov 2024
Viewed by 1054
Abstract
In the inland areas of Campania (Italy), the Taburno-Camposauro Regional Natural Park covers almost 137 square kilometres. It well represents, in the reliefs that give it its name, the southern segment of the Apennine chain. In fact, the rock outcrops, landscape features and [...] Read more.
In the inland areas of Campania (Italy), the Taburno-Camposauro Regional Natural Park covers almost 137 square kilometres. It well represents, in the reliefs that give it its name, the southern segment of the Apennine chain. In fact, the rock outcrops, landscape features and surface and ground water make it possible to reconstruct the geological evolution of this area. Nonetheless, it is possible to understand how the history of man, who has frequented these places since ancient times, has developed by taking advantage of the resources offered by this territory. Among these resources, it is believed that the characteristics of the geological heritage spread throughout the Park can also be an opportunity to attract not only researchers, but also significant tourist flows. To this end, not only has the procedure been initiated to be included in the world network of Geoparks, but efforts have also been made to promote the most representative geological sites using the latest communication tools (e.g., social media). Besides these, numerous initiatives aimed at schools and national tourism agencies were developed. Promotion found particular emphasis with the realisation of an art installation by a well-known author in a water catchment system. In fact, this installation triggered an artistic vein around the beauty of the sites, manifested by videos and photo exhibitions and even forms of entertainment. These events have increased interest in the geological heritage, as evidenced by the increase in visitors observed by a specific analysis of the performance of social media posts, as well as frequent visitors to the geoheritage elements of the Park. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geoparks: Exploring New Trends in Geoeducation and Geotourism Perspectives)
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18 pages, 12275 KiB  
Article
Digital Promotion of Geoheritage along a Tourist Route in M’Goun UNESCO Geopark (Central High Atlas, Morocco) and Visitor Typology Analysis
by Nisrine Kchikach, Hassan Ibouh, Abderrahim Benali, Anas Charbaoui and Abdelhafid El Alaoui El Fels
Geosciences 2024, 14(6), 141; https://doi.org/10.3390/geosciences14060141 - 23 May 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1431
Abstract
In the digital era, highlighting the heritage resources of a mountainous region involves describing and advertising them to promote their visibility and attractiveness. Previous studies mainly assess the natural resources of such regions through a multi-indicator descriptive evaluation. This study aims to develop [...] Read more.
In the digital era, highlighting the heritage resources of a mountainous region involves describing and advertising them to promote their visibility and attractiveness. Previous studies mainly assess the natural resources of such regions through a multi-indicator descriptive evaluation. This study aims to develop an effective evaluation of such indicators along the main tourist route of the M’Goun UNESCO Global Geopark, located in the central High Atlas of Morocco. The implementation of an experiential method to assess the tourism characteristics of this region is a notable aspect of our study. It includes analyzing the criteria for choosing this destination by segmenting tourists’ consumption experiences. Statistical data analysis has identified five dimensions of destination choice and four visitor groups. Additionally, we created an interactive map and made it accessible online to promote the natural geoheritage of this region. This article proposes to discuss the findings of this research and their applicability in terms of tourism destination management and decision-making, which can assist local governments in allocating tourism resources and land use rationally. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geoparks: Exploring New Trends in Geoeducation and Geotourism Perspectives)
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