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Landscape Heritage: Geomorphology, Geoheritage and Geoparks

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A special issue of Land (ISSN 2073-445X). This special issue belongs to the section "Land Planning and Landscape Architecture".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 August 2024) | Viewed by 26213

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Special Issue Editors

Prof. Dr. Rafael Becerra-Ramírez

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Guest Editor

1. GEOVOL, Department of Geography and Land Planning, Facultad de Letras, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Avda, Camilo José Cela s/n, 13071 Ciudad Real, Spain
2. Canary Islands Volcanology Institute – INVOLCAN, 38320 La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
Interests: geoheritage; geoparks; geotourism; volcanic geomorphology; volcanoes; natural hazards; physical geography; land planning

Prof. Dr. Javier Dóniz-Páez

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor

1. GeoTurVol, Department of Geography and History, Universidad de La Laguna, C/Prof. José Luis Moreno Becerra, s/n, 38200 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
2. Canary Islands Volcanology Institute – INVOLCAN, 38320 La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
Interests: volcanoes; volcanic geomorphology; geoheritage; geoparks; geotourism; geodiversity; human geography
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Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The aim of this Special Issue on Landscape Heritage: Geomorphology, Geoheritage and Geoparks is to expose to the international scientific community to the most innovative studies that are being developed in the field of applied geomorphology, especially those related to the conservation, protection and sustainable management of abiotic heritage, and its relationship with other territorial aspects (ecosystemic, historical-cultural, educational and divulgation) and exceptional landscapes. Activities such as geotourism should take advantage of current studies to promote sustainable development based on the land planning of areas with exceptional geomorphology and geoheritage worldwide, especially in protected natural areas (national or natural parks) and UNESCO global geoparks (declared, aspiring or in project).

This Special Issue aims to cover, without being limited to, the following topics:

Landscape heritage: works on the planning, conservation and sustainable management of the landscape will be welcome, especially those related to the abiotic heritage of the territory (geomorphology), applied to protected natural areas and, especially, to geoparks.
Geomorphology: works carrying out new study methods in geomorphology (morphometry, morphological classifications, natural risks (e.g., geohazards), geoheritage management, new technologies in the study of landforms (e.g., drones, remote sensing), environmental education, etc.).
Geoheritage: the management of territories with a geological-geomorphological base of international significance is key to understanding how abiotic aspects (geology and geomorphology) have influenced other geographical aspects such as ecosystems (distribution of plants and animals) or human societies, their history and their culture. Works that implement new methods of analysis and geoheritage evaluation, classification, comparison, geoconservation and protection, environmental divulgation and education, and landscape analysis, among others, are welcome.
Geoparks: territories under the auspices of UNESCO, where their exceptional geology/geomorphology has served for the conservation and protection of nature (both abiotic and ecosystem-level), examples of sustainable territorial management, implementation of geotourism (new products, georoutes, new activities), new technologies in geoparks land use planning, and laboratories for environmental education and population awareness.

Prof. Dr. Rafael Becerra-Ramírez
Prof. Dr. Javier Dóniz-Páez
Guest Editors

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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. Land is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

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Keywords

geomorphology
geodiversity
geosites
geomorphosites
geoheritage
geoparks
geoconservation
geoeducation
land planning
landscape analysis
environmental education
ecosystems and geoparks
ecosystem services
natural protected areas

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Published Papers (12 papers)

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Research

16 pages, 16605 KiB

Open AccessArticle

“Geological Wonders of Italy”: The Coveted Privilege of Disseminating Geology and Geomorphology through Science Documentaries in the Marche Region

by Piero Farabollini, Fabrizio Bendia and Luigi Bignami

Land 2024, 13(9), 1451; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13091451 - 6 Sep 2024

Viewed by 352

Abstract

This paper proposes an unusual method for the dissemination of geological sciences and the promotion of geotourism: a scientific documentary, where a representative itinerary of geological and geomorphological evolution of the Umbria and Marche regions was presented. The considerations that led to the identification of the geological route proposed to the editorial staff of FOCUS TV are presented in detail. At each stop, there was an explanation by academic professors and researchers, mainly from the Geology Division of the University of Camerino (MC), who explained the outcrops in detail. During the episode, insights were also given into the anthropogenic frequentation of the epigean caves in Frasassi (AN), ancient places of frequentation and worship thanks to their suggestiveness and the sense of magnificence that they can elicit. In addition to the illustration of the individual stops, the article offers further insights into the geomorphology of the most important geosites depicted, all of which are in natural parks or protected areas and characterized by a high landscape value. The result was the production of an episode of the television program ‘Geological Wonders of Italy: the Marche and Umbria Regions’, which was broadcast in October 2022 by the Italian national Mediaset group. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Landscape Heritage: Geomorphology, Geoheritage and Geoparks)

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18 pages, 1015 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Nostalgic Geotourism as a New Form of Landscape Presentation: An Application to the Carphatian Mountains

by Dana Tometzová, Miloš Jesenský, Mário Molokáč and Enikő Kornecká

Land 2024, 13(8), 1258; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13081258 - 9 Aug 2024

Viewed by 397

Abstract

In recent years, there has been a surge in interest towards innovative methods of landscape presentation across various tourism sectors, including natural heritage. Geotourism exemplifies this trend, emerging as a distinct form of tourism primarily centered on inanimate elements of nature, accentuating the aesthetic value of landscapes. Presently, geotourism serves as a platform for showcasing landscape along with its historical narrative, contemporary attributes, and, inherently, its evolutionary trajectory. This paper delves into novel avenues within geotourism, introducing the concept of nostalgic geotourism. This concept involves the portrayal of geological heritage through the lens of historical inquiry. The authors employ a multidimensional analysis to forge a robust theoretical framework underpinning the emergence of this unconventional form of tourism dedicated to landscape presentation. Additionally, the paper furnishes a case study conducted in the High Tatras region, featuring a 19th-century guided tour (lecture) on non-living nature. Through this illustration, the theoretical construct of nostalgic geotourism is applied to the locale. This heralds a fresh dimension of tourism reminiscent of traditional nostalgia-based tourism, with a pronounced cultural focus. The innovative concept fosters an increased interest in exploring geological heritage and natural landscapes, while emphasizing their sentimental value. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Landscape Heritage: Geomorphology, Geoheritage and Geoparks)

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19 pages, 1736 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Institutional, Ecological, Economic, and Socio-Cultural Sustainability—Evidence from Ponjavica Nature Park

by Vladica Ristić, Igor Trišić, Snežana Štetić, Marija Maksin, Florin Nechita, Adina Nicoleta Candrea, Marko Pavlović and Andreea Hertanu

Land 2024, 13(5), 669; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13050669 - 12 May 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1166

Abstract

The Nature Park Ponjavica (NP) is the habitat of strictly protected plant and animal species, located in AP Vojvodina, in southern Banat (Northern Serbia). The area of the park covers 302.96 ha. Protection zones I, II, and III have been established in the protected area of the NP. The NP includes the middle course of the Ponjavica River, which has preserved characteristics of watercourses of plain areas and coastal remains of wetland habitats. The most valuable area of this park in terms of protection is an island with an area of slightly less than 1 hectare. According to the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature), the NP is classified as the fourth category—Habitat and species management area. The good geographical position of NP is one of its main characteristics. The NP can be a destination where specific forms of tourism can be developed, such as ecotourism, nature-based tourism, birdwatching, scientific and research tourism, etc. Numerous historical sites represent a significant potential for the development of cultural tourism. The research examined the influence of institutional, economic, ecological, and socio-cultural sustainability on the respondents’ satisfaction. The quantitative methodology in this research included a questionnaire as a survey instrument for respondents. A total of 547 residents were surveyed. The results of the research indicate that there is considerable satisfaction among residents with sustainable tourism. The results of the research can help in the development of numerous tourism development strategies in which the wetland is the primary resource. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Landscape Heritage: Geomorphology, Geoheritage and Geoparks)

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18 pages, 25972 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Territorial Strategy for the Activation of Tourism in Low Population Density Heritage Landscapes

by Mercedes Linares Gómez del Pulgar, Marina López Sánchez, Cristina Vicente Gilabert, Miguel Ángel Antonio-García, Francisco Sánchez-Salazar and Antonio Tejedor Cabrera

Land 2024, 13(5), 574; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13050574 - 26 Apr 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 719

Abstract

Sustainable and balanced territory development involves management and planning based on the cultural and natural values that characterise it. In contrast to solutions based exclusively on quantitative growth, today, we defend qualitative territorial planning based on specific characteristics and identity what, ultimately, is the heritage content and significance of the territory. In line with these arguments, this article reflects on the need to design territorial planning strategies to activate territories with low demographic density through their heritage and landscape values, specifically referring to rural areas made up of small, scattered population centres. The wide territorial dispersion of these settlements, which represent a large proportion of Latin American and European territory, calls for specific planning and management models and criteria. This article proposes a territorial strategy for these sites aimed at sustainable tourism activation through itineraries and potential identity facilities. The application of the strategy is shown in a pilot case study of the island of Fuerteventura (Canary Islands, Spain). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Landscape Heritage: Geomorphology, Geoheritage and Geoparks)

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19 pages, 11747 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Geomorphosites as Geotouristic Resources: Assessment of Geomorphological Heritage for Local Development in the Río Lobos Natural Park

by Rosa María Ruiz-Pedrosa, María José González-Amuchástegui and Enrique Serrano

Land 2024, 13(2), 128; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13020128 - 23 Jan 2024

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 954

Abstract

Natural protected areas (NPAs) are territorial resources that have received an increasing number of visitors in societies with a high demand for landscapes of high aesthetic and scenic value. Tourism is one of the main activities in NPAs, and within this, geotourism plays an important role, becoming an effective resource in the promotion of natural heritage with repercussions on local and regional economic development. The aim of this work is to analyse geomorphosites’ tourist potential in natural protected areas, focusing on the case of the Río Lobos Natural Park (Castilla-León, Spain) and its geotourism cartography, as well as the proposal of different geotourism routes. To this end, a methodology is applied to the 14 geomorphosites inventoried in the Cañón del Río Lobos, based on a combination of different methods. Its application results in a classification with three thresholds (high, medium and low) for each geomorphosite analysed. In addition, a series of management proposals are included. The validity of this methodology applied for the evaluation of the tourist potential of geomorphosites endorses its application for other natural protected areas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Landscape Heritage: Geomorphology, Geoheritage and Geoparks)

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21 pages, 5328 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Key Area Recognition and Evaluation of Audio-Visual Landscape for Global Geoparks: A Case Study of Koktokay in China

by Yiting Zhu, Xueru Pang and Chunshan Zhou

Land 2023, 12(9), 1799; https://doi.org/10.3390/land12091799 - 17 Sep 2023

Viewed by 1170

Abstract

A comprehensive and scientific recognition and evaluation of landscape resources is an important prerequisite for the sustainable development of global geoparks, but the existing research lacks specific means and methods. In the case of the Koktokay Global Geopark (GGp), for example, in this study, we used GIS spatial analysis, SBE, and a questionnaire survey method to construct a comprehensive evaluation path and method for an audio-visual landscape for global geoparks and further built an audio-visual preference matrix. The research results show the following: (1) The Shenzhong Canyon scenic area has the best visual evaluation effect, whereas the Golden Triangle has the worst evaluation effect. (2) Tourists are generally satisfied with the soundscapes of the ten scenic locations in the Koktokay GGp. In addition, tourists do not think that a higher or lower volume of a soundscape would make their experience more comfortable or pleasant, so an increase in the threshold value of the sound level to a level that tourists can bear while traveling is possible. (3) The Shenzhong Canyon area is located in the key landscape area; the Aiguzi Mine and Cocosuri are located in the landscape natural development area; the No. 3 Mine Pit, Eremu Lakes, the Golden Triangle, and the Karadrola Falls are located in the landscape subpriority improvement area; and the Waterfall Fossil, Betula Forest, and Karashanger Earthquake Fault Zone are located in the landscape priority improvement area. The comprehensive audio-visual landscape evaluation method constructed in this study provides a methodological tool for evaluating other similar landscapes and provides professional guidance for the protection and development of geoparks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Landscape Heritage: Geomorphology, Geoheritage and Geoparks)

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23 pages, 2839 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Landscapes of the Yazd-Ardakan Plain (Iran) and the Assessment of Geotourism—Contribution to the Promotion and Practice of Geotourism and Ecotourism

by Iulian Dincă, Seyede Razieh Keshavarz and Seyed Ali Almodaresi

Land 2023, 12(4), 858; https://doi.org/10.3390/land12040858 - 10 Apr 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2417

Abstract

The attractions and capabilities of geomorphosites are among the unique assets of each country, and their identification, classification, and planning have great importance for the development of tourism. The purpose of this research was to identify, quantitatively analyse, and classify landforms treated as geosites and landscapes of Yazd Province, using the Pralong method. The present study is a descriptive analytical research based on library studies and field surveys. After determining the study area using satellite imagery, six geomorphosites were selected. Using the Pralong method, six geomorphosites were evaluated: Chak Chak, Mountain Eagle, Siahkooh, Shirkooh, Qanat, and Barfkhane Tezerjan. In this method, using the extraction of collected data from the questionnaires completed by 41 geotourism experts in the first stage, the four grades that were evaluated in terms of potential capability of geomorphosites include the appearance aesthetic, scientific, historical-cultural, and socio-economic variables, and in the next step, two variables of productivity value and quality of productivity were evaluated. The results of evaluations showed that the geomorphosites Chak Chak and Barfkhane Tezerjan had the highest score (0.62) and are the best geomorphosites for converting to geotourism and ecotourism applications, and they have high potential for attracting tourists. The second place was dedicated to the Shirkooh geomorphosite, which is considerable in terms of the average tourism grade. The best average productivity value belonged to the Chak Chak geomorphosite with 0.52, and the last one was Mountain Eagle with 0.32. All six attractions in this study had a medium grade in the qualitative scale index, meaning that they have good potential in geotouristic and ecotouristic points of view and could be improved by regional planning. Therefore, the results of this study can be used by local managers and planners to develop and promote geotourism and ecotourism. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Landscape Heritage: Geomorphology, Geoheritage and Geoparks)

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15 pages, 1165 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Introducing Geotourism to Diversify the Visitor Experience in Protected Areas and Reduce Impacts on Overused Attractions

by Daminda Sumanapala and Isabelle D. Wolf

Land 2022, 11(12), 2118; https://doi.org/10.3390/land11122118 - 24 Nov 2022

Viewed by 2268

Abstract

Sri Lankan National Parks are highly popular among international and local visitors, as they offer close-up encounters with large animal species. Yala National Park is one of the top five parks in the country attracting larger crowds than any other parks especially during the holiday season. Most visitors flock to the park to observe the highly sought-after Asian Elephant and Asian Leopard. This has led to safari operators pursuing these animals aggressively to satisfy visitor expectations, thereby threatening wildlife populations. In this article, we present a straightforward methodology to identify high-potential geotourism sites in order to diversify visitor experiences as a means to alleviate pressure from wildlife tourism. To identify sites, firstly this study has evaluated various place characteristics important for the development of geotourism, including scientific, tourism and ‘additional’ value indicators. As a result, three sites out of four were selected to promote geotourism in Yala National Park. Secondly, a strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) analysis was performed, which builds on the results from the numerical evaluation but provides a more in-depth narrative assessment. Ultimately, this study serves as an example of how to seize the opportunities that geotourism offers for diversifying tourism offers in protected areas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Landscape Heritage: Geomorphology, Geoheritage and Geoparks)

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26 pages, 6270 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Morphometric Analysis of Scoria Cones to Define the ‘Volcano-Type’ of the Campo de Calatrava Volcanic Region (Central Spain)

by Rafael Becerra-Ramírez, Javier Dóniz-Páez and Elena González

Land 2022, 11(6), 917; https://doi.org/10.3390/land11060917 - 15 Jun 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3867

Abstract

The Campo de Calatrava Volcanic Region is the largest volcanic field in the Iberian Peninsula and presents a complex volcanic history, with more than 360 monogenetic basaltic volcanoes developed in effusive, Strombolian, and hydromagmatic eruptions. The large number of scoria cones, compared to the other existing types of volcanic morphologies, indicates that these landforms represent the most common eruptive events that occurred during Calatrava’s geological past. In this work, a morphometric analysis of the scoria cones was carried out, based on statistical analysis of the main morphological parameters of these volcanoes (height, cone width, crater width, crater depth, slope, area, etc.). The results were used to identify the most frequent scoria cone by means of statistical analysis of its main morphological features. To do this, a methodology based on statistical correlations of the morphological and morphometric parameters that best define the morphology of these volcanoes was applied. The number of cones and their distribution correspond to platform volcanic fields. The most frequent identified monogenetic volcano corresponds to a scoria cone developed in Strombolian dynamics with lava flows, with mean dimensions of 36.54 m height, 0.008113 km³ volume and an area of 0.454 km². Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Landscape Heritage: Geomorphology, Geoheritage and Geoparks)

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21 pages, 4755 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Discovering a Project for the Development of Geotourism in Rural Areas: The Paleontological and Archaeological Interpretation Centre of Tamajón (CIPAT, Guadalajara, Spain)

by Fernando Barroso-Barcenilla, María del Rosario Alcalde-Fuentes, Julia Audije-Gil, Mélani Berrocal-Casero, Pedro Miguel Callapez, Senay Ozkaya de Juanas, Juan Alberto Pérez-Valera, Vanda Faria dos Santos and Manuel Segura

Land 2022, 11(3), 444; https://doi.org/10.3390/land11030444 - 19 Mar 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2836

Abstract

The important paleontological and archaeological discoveries made in Tamajón in recent years have enriched the exceptional natural and cultural heritage of this town in the north of the Guadalajara province (central Spain). The extraordinary educational and outreach value of these findings led the PaleoIbérica Research Group to develop a project for the design and creation of the Paleontological and Archaeological Interpretation Centre of Tamajón (CIPAT, acronym in Spanish). In this new space, students and the general public have access to knowledge of the past of the region through three exhibition and didactic areas and the support of a rigorous and engaging infographic. The Paleontological Area allows visitors to explore, through fossils, replicas, models (real and virtual) and dioramas, the diversity of coastal and marine life that inhabited the region during the Late Cretaceous Age. Moreover, the area highlights crocodylomorphs, dinosaurs and fishes (identified through their fossilized tracks), and the remains of plants and invertebrates. The Archaeological Area shows the origin and uses of the building material known as Tamajón Stone by means of rough or carved samples, tools traditionally used in its extraction and carving, and historical photographs. Furthermore, in the Didactic Area, innovative specific educational activities are carried out, facilitating the knowledge and appreciation of the rich natural and cultural heritage of Tamajón. After its recent inauguration (August 2021), the CIPAT is a valuable tool to encourage the practice of positive attitudes toward geoconservation and to promote the sustainable and socioeconomic development of the region through geotourism. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Landscape Heritage: Geomorphology, Geoheritage and Geoparks)

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20 pages, 5311 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Coastal Dunes Geomorphosites to Develop the Geotourism in a Volcanic Subtropical Oceanic Island, Tenerife, Spain

by Néstor Marrero-Rodríguez and Javier Dóniz-Páez

Land 2022, 11(3), 426; https://doi.org/10.3390/land11030426 - 15 Mar 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3353

Abstract

Coastal areas are exposed to high levels of human occupation, which has led to their degradation. Coastal dunes have been greatly altered by different historical and current land uses, causing the loss of their natural and cultural values. On the coast of Tenerife there are volcanic and organogenic sand active and relict dunes with multiple land uses, the most prominent of which is tourism (also the main cause of their deterioration). The aim of this study is to demonstrate the relevance of geomorphosites associated to the aeolian depositional systems of Tenerife as volcanic geoheritage through the application of international methodologies used for these evaluations, and to propose geotourism uses that will contribute to their sustainability. In Tenerife there are thirteen aeolian system geomorphosites in which palaeodunes, active dunes and a combination of both have been identified, 53.9% of which are protected. The main historical and current uses are related to grazing, sand mining and tourism. These different land uses have produced the degradation of these landforms, which have induced the loss of some of their scientific and additional values. The average score for the scientific values (0.58) is higher than for the additional values (0.41) in most of the thirteen selected geomorphosites; the values lie in the middle of the range and there is no correlation between the scientific and additional values (R² = 0.17). The geotourism proposal presented in this study is associate to the volcanic diversity of the coast of Tenerife and should be aimed at both the general public and specialists. The number of visitors should be restricted and sustainable according to the zoning laws for the regulations and use of the protected areas; and it should use the net of authorized paths which already exists in the geomorphosites. To this end, certain facilities will be required to help disseminate and promote the heritage of Tenerife’s dune geomorphosites through panels, websites, apps or QR codes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Landscape Heritage: Geomorphology, Geoheritage and Geoparks)

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16 pages, 5893 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Geodiversity, Geoconservation, and Geotourism in Central America

by Adolfo Quesada-Román, Lidia Torres-Bernhard, Maynor A. Ruiz-Álvarez, Manuel Rodríguez-Maradiaga, Gema Velázquez-Espinoza, Catalina Espinosa-Vega, Jaime Toral and Hugo Rodríguez-Bolaños

Land 2022, 11(1), 48; https://doi.org/10.3390/land11010048 - 29 Dec 2021

Cited by 26 | Viewed by 3593

Abstract

Central America is located in a dynamic region where tectonics and volcanism together with the tropical climate and its diverse vegetation have shaped the landscapes. Our main objective is to review the status of the geodiversity, geoconservation, and geotourism in Central America. We will identify the region’s geomorphic environments and geodiversity using classic regional geomorphology mapping techniques. Likewise, using touristic maps and webpages, we identify the most prominent geosites of different origin in Central America. Moreover, we will explore the national environmental policies, natural conservation systems, and tourism initiatives to promote their national geoheritage through geotourism. We found that volcanic, coastal, karstic, glacial, and fluvial geomorphic environments are the most common in the region. In addition, we identified 393 geosites of volcanic, coastal, karstic, glacial, fluvial, and archeological origin in Central America. The promotion of geoheritage, geodiversity, geoconservation, and thus the development of geoparks are excellent opportunities to promote sustainable development, sustainable lifestyles, appreciation of natural and cultural diversity, and the promotion of peace. These results may prove important to spread information about geoscience widely to decision makers on geotourism and conservation in each country and the stakeholders of the region. Geoheritage studies in tropical and developing countries such as those in Central America should be improved, and priority should be given to the geomorphological dynamics and strong anthropic pressures on their geo- and biodiversity to increase their income through geotourism, especially among the less favored communities and avoid affecting their already threatened natural resources. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Landscape Heritage: Geomorphology, Geoheritage and Geoparks)

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