Historical Geology

The inventory and evaluation of geosites are fundamental steps of any geoconservation strategies and in setting priorities for the management of protected areas. The North-Marchean Apennines (central Italy) host an extraordinary geoheritage, making its use by society worthwhile and meaningful (e.g., teaching/learning, tourism, and recreation). An area of 600 square kilometres embracing 18 municipalities, mainly distributed along the Mt. Catria–Mt. Nerone ridge, is home to numerous spectacular geosites. The purpose of this study is to analyze the environmental heritage of the North-Marchean Apennines through the recognition, selection, and description of an extensive list of geosites, with a view to providing useful data for the establishment of a possible geopark discussed in the context of a region that is rich in protected areas. Among these, seven geosites were chosen as representative of the area and were processed through a quantitative evaluation method. The calculated Q-value...

Despite the high geoheritage value of caves and karsts, northern Ethiopia's largest cave at Zeyi (13.5586°N, 39.1454°E) in the Dogu'a Tembien district has received little attention so far. We have studied its geological, geomorphic, socio-cultural and historical dimensions in a holistic way. The basal member of the Antalo Limestone, in which the Zeyi cave is located, consists of grainstone and wackestone with subordinate marly interlayers. Over a length of 364 m, the oval-shaped gallery displays stalagmites, stalactites, five columns, dissolution holes ("bell-holes") following joints, stalagmitic floors and other concretions or speleothems. In the absence of any dating of the cave, we contrasted its elevation above the current local base level with known average incision rates of the northern Ethiopian highlands to reconstruct its age, which was calculated as at least 2 to 4 million years. The palaeo-environmental information that is archived in the Zeyi cave sediment would hence cover the Pleistocene. The graves in the sediment at the bottom of the Zeyi cave further indicate that the place could be an ancient burial site, which gives scope for archaeological research. Zeyi boosts a unique combination of abiotic, biotic and cultural components: the nineteenth c. church under the overhanging cliff; the unique cave; the speleothems, cliffs and gorges; and the cave's bat colony which has been genetically confirmed to be composed of three syntopically roosting species. Accounting for a good balance between cave research, community-based geotourism, geoconservation and biodiversity conservation, the Zeyi cave has strong credentials to become a top geotouristic site in northern Ethiopia. However, major work needs to be done, including granting access for women and organising community-based geotourism.

The paper focuses on the potentiality of geosites valorisation in supporting a sustainable rural development strategy. An inner area in Southern Italy with a valuable naturalistic and geological, heritage is considered. The area is analysed under demographic, economic, environmental, agricultural and tourism profiles to bring out limits and strengths that a strategy of geological valorisation can meet. Results highlighted the fragility of the Mountain -in terms of depopulation, ageing, unemployment and low firm density, that has not been affected by a proper tourism development. The valorisation of geosites can achieve its potential if all components of local heritage are reinforced and built around common peculiarities.

By the example of Tara National Park (NP), we present how the geoheritage can and should be presented in a NP where the primary role is played by biology. Tara NP has a rich geoheritage, especially its karst phenomena, which include gorges (e.g. the 1000-m-deep Drina Gorge), plateaus with dolines, dry valleys, and uvalas as well as springs and travertines. In addition, ophiolites also enrich the geoheritage; hence, the area has a high geodiversity. Large reservoirs of the territory provide an opportunity to study the anthropogenic impact on hydrology and geomorphology. After presenting the geoheritage elements of the area, we examine the views and knowledge of local people and visitors about karst and geotourism with the help of a questionnaire survey. The results show that local residents support the further development of tourism, but geotourism is a rather new concept for them. On the contrary, tourists are more familiar with geotourism. Among the development perspectives, touris...

Kempen Warisan Lenggong 2013 is a social campaign organized by final year students in Persuasive Communication, School of Communication, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM). This is the first campaign done outside of USM and Penang Island. Famously known as one of the world heritage sites in Malaysia, Lenggong Valley, Perak had been recognized by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) on 30 th June 2012 as the fourth World Heritage Site. The campaign was done to raise the awareness among the local students on the importance of conserving and preserving Lenggong Valley as the heritage and the historical site as well as create an awareness towards the recognition of being one of the World Heritage Sites. Furthermore, the Kempen Warisan Lenggong was initiated to foster a sense of ownership among students and also to increase the involvement of the students in the efforts of maintaining the World Heritage Site status in Lenggong Valley. A baseline research was done earlier prior to the campaign, in order to identify problems or issues especially on the knowledge, attitudes and practices of local students towards Lenggong. 175 students from three different schools participated in the survey. The research found that local students had low levels of knowledge and understanding especially on the recognition and the importance of Lenggong Valley as one of the World Heritage Site. Some respondents were not even aware about the recognition at all. Only 5.7% of the respondents knew about the recognition given towards Lenggong Valley. More than half of the respondents (58.3%) were unsure that they would want to continue to stay at Lenggong after they finished their studies. The main reason was because they could not see any job opportunities available in Lenggong valley since it is a rural area. Therefore, various activities have been planned for

The concept of geodiversity aggregates the abiotic elements of nature and promotes the geoconservation. The main objective of this work is to contribute to the upgrade of the method for the assessment and quantification of geodiversity proposed by . The method is based on the superposition of a regular grid of 12 × 12 km on different maps (lithology, geomorphology, soil, paleonthology, mineral and geological energy resources) at scales of 1:250,000 to 1:600,000. In addition to other upgrades, the water resources are regarded here as a new component to consider when quantifying geodiversity. The sum of these maps generated the quantitative Map of Geodiversity Indices and the Map of Geodiversity Assessment, ranging from very low to very high geodiversity. The analysis of the geodiversity map of the State of Ceará (Brazil) shows the applicability and advantage of this method, highlighting two regions with higher levels of geodiversity (Northwest and South) and another region with the lowest levels (Sertões Cearenses). The results also allowed the characterization of the State of Ceará concerning the individual components of the geodiversity, especially the water resources. Geodiversity indices and maps are comprehensive and user-friendly data in the territorial planning, considering the geodiversity either as a whole, or each of its components, especially the more sensitive such as fossil conservation, and water, mineral, and nonrenewable energy resources management.

The key to achieving an effective and sustainable geopark waste management system is fostering community participation. This research about the Gunung Sewu Geopark, Yogyakarta, Indonesia, examines the phases and levels of community participation in waste reduction. The study involved surveying 1,757 respondents aged 18 and above using door-to-door questionnaires, which were analysed using the conditional probability method to determine participation stages and levels. The results indicate that community participation in waste reduction activities, such as composting and recycling is inadequate, with only 21.12% of respondents participating in the decision-making stage, 1.99% participating in the implementation stage, and 0.68% finding waste reduction activities valuable. Rural community participation level scores were 0.68 and categorised as very low. The incomplete stages of participation and low levels of participation are significant challenges for implementing sustainable waste management and maintaining conservation principles in Gunung Sewu Geopark. Further research could be conducted to determine the driving factors that most influence rural community participation so that geopark policymakers can develop strategies to increase participation more effectively and to targets.

Glacial environments can have significant impacts on the surrounding landscape and nearby populations when affected by volcanic activity. As such, glaciovolcanic interactions and related hazards have received substantial attention during the last few decades. In contrast, the study of void spaces created by these interactions-glaciovolcanic cave systems-remains underrepresented. This review outlines the global distribution of glaciovolcanic caves and describes examples of both historical and ongoing research advances, most of which are limited to volcanoes of the Cascade Volcanic Arc and Antarctica. Examples range from a largely static fumarolic ice cave system in the crater of Mount Rainier to glaciovolcanic cave genesis and evolution in the crater of Mount St. Helens, where the advancing glacier ice is interacting with ongoing fumarolic activity and generating new cave systems. This review includes various volcanic subfields and also brings together additional disciplines including speleology, microbiology, and astrobiology. Due to the importance of glaciovolcanic caves in the hydrothermal cycle of volcanic systems, the global fight against antibiotic resistance, and their implications for understanding volcano-ice interactions beyond Earth, research on these systems is expanding. Kamchatka, Alaska, and Iceland have notable potential for further studies, while known research sites still hold open questions, including better understanding of the environmental parameters affecting cave genesis and persistence, the effect of glaciovolcanic cave development on underlying hydrothermal systems, and cataloging the biodiversity of glaciovolcanic cave environments. Volcano-ice interactions • Cascade Volcanic Arc • Antarctica • Astrobiology • Antibiotic resistance Zusammenfassung Glazial beeinflusste Gebiete können in Verbindung mit vulkanischer Aktivität große Auswirkungen auf die umliegende Landschaft und nahegelegene Ansiedlungen haben. Aufgrund dessen haben Vulkan-Eis-Interaktionen und damit verbundene Gefahren innerhalb der letzten Jahrzehnte große Beachtung gefunden. Im Gegensatz dazu sind Studien zu Hohlräumen im Eis (sogenannten vulkanischen Gletscherhöhlen), die durch diese Interaktionen entstehen, unterrepräsentiert. Dieser Artikel zeigt das weltweite Vorkommen vulkanischer Gletscherhöhlen auf und beschreibt Beispiele vergangener und aktueller Forschung, wobei diese vor allem auf Vulkane des Kaskadengebirges und der Antarktis beschränkt ist. Beispiele reichen dabei von einem relativ statischen System vulkanischer Gletscherhöhlen in Firneis, wie sie am Mount Rainier vorkommen, bis hin This paper constitutes part of a topical collection: Looking Backwards and Forwards in Volcanology: A Collection of Perspectives on the Trajectory of a Science Editorial responsibility: K.V. Cashman

Volcanic zones are important geoheritage sites. Active volcanic fields are of special interest because they allow to observe the complex and interesting stratigraphic relationships that often characterise their products and processes, as well as landscapes of unusual beauty. These geological sites enable visitors to appreciate the full complexity of volcanic activity and the importance of the geoheritage values that should be preserved. To ensure a correct preservation of these zones while opening them up to visitors, management plans should establish and consolidate a network of outcrops that allow visitors to get to know the area in question and preserve its geological heritage and the social and economic dynamism. In La Garrotxa Volcanic Field, most of which is protected by a natural park, a new methodology has been created to 1,2 3✉ 1 2 3 e.Proofing ... 2 de 37 04/10/20 3:09 p. m. identify the sites of greatest geological interest and, above all, those that exemplify the diversity of eruptive styles and volcanic products and landforms in the area. Taking into account the most relevant management requirements (conservation and dissemination), in 1994 a total of 60 outcrops were classified as points of geological interest of the area. In this study we further present a specific methodology to select the most suitable sites for the preservation of the main volcanological features of La Garrotxa Volcanic Field. A group of 12 sites were selected from the initially identified outcrops and included in an itinerary as the most representative geological and pedagogical sites while also bearing in mind their ease of access and preservation and the possible impact of visitors (e.g. erosion). The following five criteria were considered when restoring these outcrops: integration into the landscape, consolidation of their geology, regulation of visits, the mitigation of risk, and the participation of the people that live in the area.

El Teide National Park on the island of Tenerife (Canary Islands) is home to one of the most spectacular volcanic landscapes in the world. Although the conservation of its geodiversity is not a major problem given that it is governed by strict Spanish laws on geoconservation and is, in addition, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the diffusion of its geological values among the general public is more of a challenge due to the lack of any specific program for scientific knowledge transfer to visitors. The volcanological history of this national park needs to be transmitted in a clear and comprehensible fashion. However, the lack of adequate outreach material and of any coherent and consistent narrative regarding the significance of the island’s geological heritage makes it difficult to incorporate its geological history into the minds of visitors. This engenders a perception of its geoheritage that underestimates its importance. To remedy this misconception, the following tasks need to be...

Volcanic zones are important geoheritage sites. Active volcanic fields are of special interest because they allow to observe the complex and interesting stratigraphic relationships that often characterise their products and processes, as well as landscapes of unusual beauty. These geological sites enable visitors to appreciate the full complexity of volcanic activity and the importance of the geoheritage values that should be preserved. To ensure a correct preservation of these zones while opening them up to visitors, management plans should establish and consolidate a network of outcrops that allow visitors to get to know the area in question and preserve its geological heritage and the social and economic dynamism. In La Garrotxa Volcanic Field, most of which is protected by a natural park, a new methodology has been created to 1,2 3✉ 1 2 3 e.Proofing ... 2 de 37 04/10/20 3:09 p. m. identify the sites of greatest geological interest and, above all, those that exemplify the diversity of eruptive styles and volcanic products and landforms in the area. Taking into account the most relevant management requirements (conservation and dissemination), in 1994 a total of 60 outcrops were classified as points of geological interest of the area. In this study we further present a specific methodology to select the most suitable sites for the preservation of the main volcanological features of La Garrotxa Volcanic Field. A group of 12 sites were selected from the initially identified outcrops and included in an itinerary as the most representative geological and pedagogical sites while also bearing in mind their ease of access and preservation and the possible impact of visitors (e.g. erosion). The following five criteria were considered when restoring these outcrops: integration into the landscape, consolidation of their geology, regulation of visits, the mitigation of risk, and the participation of the people that live in the area.

El Teide National Park on the island of Tenerife (Canary Islands) is home to one of the most spectacular volcanic landscapes in the world. Although the conservation of its geodiversity is not a major problem given that it is governed by strict Spanish laws on geoconservation and is, in addition, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the diffusion of its geological values among the general public is more of a challenge due to the lack of any specific program for scientific knowledge transfer to visitors. The volcanological history of this national park needs to be transmitted in a clear and comprehensible fashion. However, the lack of adequate outreach material and of any coherent and consistent narrative regarding the significance of the island's geological heritage makes it difficult to incorporate its geological history into the minds of visitors. This engenders a perception of its geoheritage that underestimates its importance. To remedy this misconception, the following tasks need to be carried out: (1) a compilation of all current scientific knowledge of the geology and volcanology of the area; (2) the identification of key geosites that offer the best means of understanding the history and evolution of this volcanic area; (3) the production of outreach and diffusion programs specifically designed to transmit this scientific knowledge to the general public; and (4) the establishment of permanent training programs for park and tourist guides that will guarantee the efficacy of this knowledge transmission. This contribution summarizes the main aspects of the geological history of El Teide National Park, identifies the elements that best exhibit its geological heritage, discusses the main problems observed in transmitting these geological values to visitors, and provides some clues as to how to face up to these challenges.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the work of geologist lies in knowing how to read the physical landscape as an expression of the geological and geomorphological phenomena that shaped the Earth’s relief over time. The necessity to disseminate these vast areas of knowledges and skills starts from here, with the aim to enhance the concept of geodiversity and to raise awareness for its protection and promotion. This work aims to share some examples of projects realized following the subscription of agreement between different public authorities in the Apennine territory of Marche Region in Italy, such as the Geology Section of the University of Camerino (MC), “Consorzio Frasassi” (which manages the underground karst complex of Frasassi caves) and municipality of Genga (AN), where Frasassi caves are located. Thanks to this partnership, our research group realized didactic geological notebooks for school groups visiting the caves and interactive museum laboratories in 3D, showing t...

Dong Van district in Ha Giang province, one of four districts of Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark, has a number of geosites with great potential for geo-tourism development. By the aim to promote tourism development and to propose a management plan, the present work selects six typical geosites in Dong Van district for assessment geoheritage values. The studied geosites are characterized based on the global framework of geological world heritage [13] and are evaluated values of science, potential education and tourism depending on a series of quantitative criteria from Rocha et al. 2013, Brilha 2016 with a score ranging from 1 to 5, 2002. Furthermore, the qualification of the six-geosite group is recognized according to both the relevance of the meaning attributed to the objects by scientific communities (defined as relevance grade) and the public understanding of such meanings related to the social use of the objects (defined as abstract perceptiveness) from Reis and Henriques 2009. The results show that six geosites are classified into three types of geological sites including paleontology, geomorphology (covered by karst deserts and caves) and petrology-mineralogy. The quantitative assessment concerning scientific requirement and educational as well tourism uses represents and defines the potential geo-tourism development on both the science communities and public understanding. The ultimate goal of the study is to use these results for the conservation of the area.

Seoraksan Mountains in the Republic of Korea are presented as an area of outstanding geodiversity combining rock-controlled granite landforms, inherited cold-climate landforms and highly active contemporary geomorphological processes. Three generations of granites, ranging in age from Proterozoic to Cretaceous, are present and each of these supports distinctive morphology. Cretaceous granites are associated with most spectacular features such as domes and towers, fins, long rock slopes, and fluvial gorges. The latter host abundant waterfalls of different types, potholes, and bedrock channels. While no clear glacial landforms exist in Seoraksan, widespread blockfields, blockslopes, and blockstreams constitute the cold-climate legacy of potentially important palaeoclimatic significance. Slope steepness and extreme rainfall events are the decisive factors to explain frequent mass movements which leave visible erosional and depositional evidence on slopes and in valley floors. The geodiversity of Seoraksan makes the area highly suitable for outdoor geo-education and it is also argued that the area represents a highly diverse, non-glaciated mountainous geomorphological system that integrates source and sink areas and is of exceptional value and extraordinary scenic beauty.

An inventory of geological sites based on solid and clear criteria is a first step for any geoconservation strategy. This paper describes the method used in the geoheritage inventory of the State of São Paulo, Brazil, and presents its main results. This inventory developed by the geoscientific community aimed to identify geosites with scientific value in the whole state, using a systematic approach. All 142 geosites representative of 11 geological frameworks were characterised and quantitatively evaluated according to their scientific value and risk of degradation, in order to establish priorities for their future management. An online database of the inventory is under construction, which will be available to be easily consulted and updated by the geoscientific community. All data were made available to the State Geological Institute as the backbone for the implementation of a future state geoconservation strategy.

El estudio de caso elegido, es decir, la reconstrucción (real, supuesta,
fallida) del territorio calabrés después del devastador sismo de 1783, se
inscribe en el alcance de los estudios sobre las dificultades a las que
se enfrenta la población local y la clase política del Reino de Nápoles
animada por el reformismo borbónico. Abordada desde una perspectiva
comparativa en el marco del proyecto internacional ProSiMoll la investigación geo-histórica supuso la recuperación de documentos producidos en la época, tras la catástrofe, por las instituciones responsables, y el nuevo estudio de los mismos. La atención prestada a las múltiples cuestiones interconectadas (históricas,
geográficas, cartográficas, culturales, sociales, económicas, políticas,
técnicas y tecnológicas), incitó a los investigadores a reconsiderar
las fuentes y a valorar entre ellas la cartografía histórica, como producto
de conocimientos especializados y palimpsesto de información. Con el
fin de gestionar mejor los datos e interpretarlos después de manera más
específica, la solución identificada condujo a la creación de una base
de datos cualitativa-cuantitativa.

An inventory of geological sites based on solid and clear criteria is a first step for any geoconservation strategy. This paper describes the method used in the geoheritage inventory of the State of São Paulo, Brazil, and presents its main results. This inventory developed by the geoscientific community aimed to identify geosites with scientific value in the whole state, using a systematic approach. All 142 geosites representative of 11 geological frameworks were characterised and quantitatively evaluated according to their scientific value and risk of degradation, in order to establish priorities for their future management. An online database of the inventory is under construction, which will be available to be easily consulted and updated by the geoscientific community. All data were made available to the State Geological Institute as the backbone for the implementation of a future state geoconservation strategy.

The inventory of the geological heritage, along with the quantification of its value, is an essential task for the implementation of geoconservation strategies. Despite the Brazilian's rich geological heritage, only the state of São Paulo has concluded its systematic inventory. This paper presents the geological heritage inventory of Paraná State and a quantitative assessment of the scientific value of geosites and their vulnerability. The method applied for the geosites evaluation was adjusted after analyzing the most deemed protocols in international literature, taking into account the Brazilian socioeconomic and cultural conditions. The selection of geosites made by experts was based on the following criteria: representativeness, rarity, integrity, and degree of scientific knowledge. The inventory consists of 76 geosites, distributed in nine geological frameworks, which represent the geological evolution of Paraná. It is expected that this work may support future planning and management actions, which can safeguard the state's geological heritage, with efficient strategies, especially for those places with high risk of degradation.

Determining the quantitative values of geosites, which constitute the primary supply sources of geotourism, has an important role in developing geotourism. For this reason, the number of studies determining the values of geosites according to various factors is increasing daily. Although these studies make significant contributions to the literature, the problem of objectivity in geosite evaluation stages is still seen as an important issue. In particular, the fact that hesitant, uncertain, and ambiguous information from evaluators prevents objectivity in geosite evaluations is still controversial. In this context, this study aims to adapt fuzzy set-based MCDM (Multi-Criteria Decision Making) methods to geosite evaluation. For this purpose, SFSs (Spherical Fuzzy Sets), the new version of fuzzy sets, were used in integration with SWARA (Step-wise Weight Assessment Ratio Analysis)-COBRA (Comprehensive Distance-Based Ranking) methods. This methodological approach allows for minimising uncertain and ambiguous judgments arising from decision-makers. This proposed methodology was tested as a case study on six geosites selected from two districts of Aksaray province (Güzelyurt and Gülağaç) in Türkiye. According to the findings, significant differences were detected between traditional geosite evaluation approaches and the approach proposed in this study, both in weighting the criteria and ranking geosites. These results show that the proposed methodological approach can be a useful tool in reducing the objectivity problem frequently encountered in evaluating geosites. In this context, the proposed method is expected to contribute to the level of theoretical knowledge that will form the basis of geosites.

Daerah studi yang di daratan daerah Sumatra bagian utara pada daerah seluas kurang lebih 2,946 km2. Cekungan Sumatera Utara adalah salah satu dari tiga cekungan busur belakang yang terbentuk selama Tersier (Oligosen Awal), pada Lempeng Eurasia atau Paparan Sunda (Sastromihardjo, 1988). area studi sebelumnya sudah pernah dilakukan kegiatan eksplorasi dan eskploitasi sejak jaman sebelum kemerdekaan. Berdasarkan informasi terdahulu hidrokarbon wilayah studi didominasi oleh gas dengan beberapa kemungkinan prospek minyak yang dibuktikan dari beberapa rembesan di daerah ini. Studi dilakukan adalah salah satunya dengan melakukan evaluasi dan interpretasi terhadap data-data sumur dan line seismik 2D.

El presente articulo es un analisis historico-filosofico acerca de como se fueron desarrollando las principales ideas conceptuales, epistemologicas, metodologicas, asi como los recursos cognitivos que permitieron plantear por primera vez en la ciencia moderna que la Tierra tenia una historia propia e independiente a la historia humana. Mi argumento es que el estudio de los fosiles y el de los estratos geologicos llevaron a la formulacion de nuevas e ineditas ideas acerca de los procesos de transformacion geologica y de fosilizacion en los siglos XVII y XVIII. La investigacion de este segmento del mundo natural fue el antecedente que permitio establecer las primeras condiciones de posibilidad para que en el siglo XIX se aceptara que la edad de la Tierra era mas antigua que el calculo basado en las cronologias biblicas, lo cual represento un nuevo problema metrico para las nacientes ciencias historicas, como la geologia, la paleontologia, la arqueologia y la biologia evolutiva: ?Cual ...

Geotourism could be one of the powerful tools for protecting the environment. It provides a long-term competitive edge through geomanagement. As a niche area of the global tourism industry, geotourism is growing rapidly due to the high appreciation of landscape and geological phenomena. Fostering the nature and cultural sustainability, geotourists seek geological wonders framed in a natural and cultural authenticity. Responding to the call of the Egyptian Tourism Ministry to study nontraditional patterns of tourism, this study aims to investigate the factors predicting the behavioural intention to take geotours among international tourists. The study incorporated new constructs in the theory of reasoned action to achieve its aim. Employing structural equation modelling, findings revealed that behavioural intention of taking geotours is affected by geotourists' attributes, attitudes towards geotours, cultural heritage and subjective norms. The study introduces useful implications to policymakers and managers of tourism authorities in developing countries.

Geoarchaeological heritage sites hold a significant appeal for geotourism, offering a unique blend of geological, archaeological, and cultural appeals. Our study is an attempt to explore geotourism potential of geoarchaeological heritage sites in the Vindhyan Range, Deogarh Lalitpur, using SWOT-AHP analysis. This region is a unique blend of geological marvels, geomorphological attractions, archaeological treasures, and a rich cultural history, including exquisite rock-cut sculpture art, making it an alluring prospect for geotourism. The main objective of our study is to reveal the inherent strengths and weaknesses of these sites, along with the opportunities they can take advantage of and the threats they need to protect against. We seek to offer valuable insights for the sustainable growth of geotourism while conserving the region's rich heritage. To assess the geotourism potential of these geoarchaeological heritage sites, we utilized a twofold approach, combining a strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) study with the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) methodology. Strengths include diverse geological characteristics, intriguing rock-cut sculptures, historical significance, and a rich cultural legacy, which serve as a solid foundation. Weaknesses such as poor infrastructure and limited accessibility provide challenges. The peaceful environment of Devgarh presents opportunities for geotourism. Threats, including environmental degradation and mismanagement of rock-cut sculptures, necessitate careful management. The AHP technique supports our SWOT analysis by prioritizing aspects based on local people, experts, and tourist's feedback, guiding holistic geotourism development initiatives.

The promotion of geological heritage can significantly contribute to geoeducation. As geosites are areas that can be visited by everyone and not just experts on the field, a good comprehension of the processes under which they were formed can improve their understanding of the Earth in general. In this work, we have selected two Greek regions, namely Samaria Gorge (Crete) and Mount Pentelicus (Attica), and their sites of geological interest were mapped. Subsequently, some georoutes are proposed, covering both these sites and other locations of cultural, historical, archaeological, and/or religious interest. Through a detailed description of each site and its georoutes, we intend to promote the two areas' geological heritage on the one hand, and contribute to the development of geoeducation on the other hand. For this purpose, we have also created an online story map and a Virtual Reality (VR) application for each one of them, both addressed to the general public.

At the beginning of the twenty-first century, Bojan Erhartič had a strong impact on Slovenian geography because he placed it on the map of countries where geographers deal with geomorphological heritage. He began his research path into the world of natural heritage with the study of geography. After receiving his bachelor’s degree, he turned his attention to studying geodiversity, and this led him to issues concerning the evaluation of geomorphological heritage, especially in mountainous areas. Erhartič was among the first in Slovenian geography to deal with the aesthetic evaluation of geomorphological heritage. His interest in the “beauty of nature” stemmed from many years of planned work in (geographical) photography. The Anton Melik Geographical Institute of the Research Center of the Slovenian Academy of Sciences and Arts holds approximately 218,000 of his “geographical” photos, which he took during his many travels in more than forty countries on five continents.

The dinosaur footprints site in Ababuj was one of the first to be described in Aragón. Three lustra later we revise its palaeontological content and we announce the finding of four new dinosaur footprints sites placed in that municipality. All of them are mapped in the Villar del Arzobispo Formation which age, in this area, have been considered medium Tithonian-basal Berriasian. Although some of the sites can be placed even in the upper part of the Formation, regional palaeontological data seems to indicate that the Formation contain always Jurassic vertebrate remains. The first site described in Ababuj (called here AB-1) includes, at least, three well identified dinosaur ichnite trackways, as well as others less evident, and isolated footprints. One of the trackways consists of tridactyl ichnites produced by a large theropod dinosaur; another trackway shows oval imprints which are similar to others from a Thyreophora ("Deltapodus-like") producer described nearby, and the third, with circular and semilunar footprints of larger size, was left by a big sauropod (maybe a diplodocoid).

We describe the findings of cyclidans from the unpublished collection of the famous paleontologist B.I. Chernyshev (1888-1950) in the storage of the Academician F.N. Chernyshev Central Scientific Research Geological Survey Museum (CNIGR museum, St. Petersburg, Russia). These cyclidans were discovered by various researchers in the Carboniferous and Permian of the Urals. They are represented by the following taxa: Oonocarcinus uralicus new species, Uralocyclus feldmanni new species, Ambocyclus capidulum (Chernyshev, 1933), and Magnitocyclus (?) sp. indet. The discovery of the new species Oonocarcinus uralicus n. sp. greatly expands the geographic and stratigraphic interval of the genus Oonocarcinus Gemmellaro, 1890, previously known from the Middle Permian and Triassic. The discovery of Uralocyclus feldmanni n. sp. in the Mississippian deposits of the Chelyabinsk Oblast indicates a wide distribution of the genus Uralocyclus Mychko and Alekseev, 2018 in the Early Carboniferous, because Carboniferous representatives of this genus were previously known only from Ireland and England. The paper provides an up-to-date list of all known cyclidan occurrences and taxa in Russia. http://zoobank.org/6d69be36-74ca-4205-8eb8-89d1f28458c7 Non-technical Summary We describe the findings of cyclidans from the unpublished collection of the famous paleontologist B.I. Chernyshev (1888-1950) in the storage of the Academician F.N. Chernyshev Central Scientific Research Geological Survey Museum (St. Petersburg, Russia). Cyclidans are extinct, unusual arthropods that are superficially similar to crabs, and can even look like horseshoe crabs or ticks, but are not related to any of these groups. The specimens were discovered by various researchers in the Carboniferous and Permian of the Ural Mountains of Russia. Two new species are named, and two previously known species are reported here. The new findings expand our knowledge of this enigmatic group and will help to decipher their evolutionary history and niche in the ancient ecosystems in which they are found. The paper provides an up-to-date list of all known cyclidan occurrences and taxa in Russia.

Cultural landscapes were developed as a result of continuous interaction between nature and human culture. During their evolution, the geodiversity was also considerably influenced by human activities. Recently, geoheritage studies have become more sensitive towards man-made cultural landmarks. In this paper, we explore a methodology to compile a regional inventory for a historic mountainous cultural landscape with remarkable geological, volcanological, and mining heritage in Tokaj Mts, (NE Hungary). The databases of the natural and cultural heritage contribute to the extension of regional inventories with a large number of geodiversity-related records. The specific selection procedure with a combination of GIS and fieldwork assessment resulted in the final list of potential sites. The applied three stage classification forms a basis for territorial analysis. The selected 60 geosites of 700 km 2 represents well the geological history of the study area, while another 160 geodiversity and geocultural sites emphasize further enhancement of natural and cultural diversity. The functional classification referring to the physical nature of the sites was useful to define specific conservation management priorities. The thematic grouping of the sites defined new interpretation possibilities for geotourism and geoeducation taking into account volcanological, geomorphological, and mining heritage values.

In protected areas (e.g. geoparks, UNESCO sites), the identification of the different aspects of geoheritage site values is part of a holistic concept of protection, education and sustainable development. In the past years, significant progress has been achieved in the volcano tourism in Hungary as shown by the acceptance of two geoparks as members of Global Geoparks Network. They are the Bakony-Balaton Geopark and the Novohrad-Nograd Geopark, which involves also the old village of Hollókő UNESCO cultural heritage site. These geoparks as well as the recently (2013) opened Kemenes Volcano Park used primarily the volcanological natural values in their application, and these play still an important role to attract the visitors. The Tokaj Wine Region (TWR) Historic Cultural Landscape (inscribed on the World Heritage List in 2002 as a cultural site) is also characterized by high geodiversity due to a Case of an UNESCO World Heritage Site, Tokaj Wine

Inventorying, Evaluating and Tourism Valuating the Geomorphosites from the Central Sector of the Ceahlău National Park. The studied area is part of Ceahlău Mountains, one of Romania's first rang natural tourism zones namely the central sector which was designated national park and where the protection and superior valuing of the geomorphosites is necessary. The present article intends to catalogue (through detailed inventory charts) and evaluate the geomorphosites (considering the criteria used at international standards like scientific value, environmental, aesthetic, cultural and economic) from this area where the specificity and significance is given by the structural and petrographic elements. The inventorying and evaluating process will lead to establishing a series of provisions for the superior protection and tourism promotion (including proposing geo-tourism routes) of the area. Correlation between effective values of the geomorphosites (scientific, environmental, aesthetic, cultural-historic and economic) and the global value were made.

In the eastern Yangtze Platform of South China Block, Tremadocian (Early Ordovician) stromatolites in southern Anhui Province occur along a palaeoenvironmental transect from the shallowest intra-platform setting through to deeper platform margin. The intra-platform and platform margin belts of Tremadocian rocks in the eastern platform are carbonate-dominated marine environments favourable for calcimicrobes. However, stromatolites are absent in siliciclastic-dominated slope facies. Shallower carbonate facies are represented by the upper member of the Lunshan Formation, composed of a hundred metres thickness of stromatolite-bearing carbonates. Such stromatolites at the Beigong section of Jinxian county are characterized by stratiform and dome-shaped laminations. Girvanella filaments are ubiquitous in thin sections. Crinoids grew on the surfaces of the microbialites. In contrast, towards the deeper carbonate platform margin, stromatolites in massive-bedded limestones of the upper member of Lunshan Formation of the Ma'anshan section at Shitai occur as dense columns of bindstones; macrofossils and bioclasts are rare in those stromatolites, indicating a lower energy and deeper marine setting. Water depth at the platform margin of the Ma'anshan section is interpreted as being above the base of the euphotic zone favorable for photosynthesis in the calcimicrobial community; however, benthic fauna notably declined. In contrast to shallower settings, in clastic-dominated locations interpreted as deposited in deeper water, stromatolites are absent, represented by the middle member of Dawuqian Formation at the Ziliqian section. This work, therefore, supports that Early Ordovician reef systems were still microbial-dominated, representing the last golden age of stromatolites.

Erdgeschichte, Historische Geologie oder Evolution der Erde-es gibt so einige Begriffe für das, was sich Olaf Elicki und Christoph Breitkreuz im vorliegenden Buch zum Thema machen. Die beiden Autoren, ihres Zeichens Professoren der renommierten TU Bergakademie Freiberg, haben sich aber für einen anderen Titel entschieden: "Die Entwicklung des Systems Erde". Damit ist nicht nur der Inhalt schon recht genau umrissen, sondern auch die Perspektive: Die Erde als System, als wechselvolles Zusammenspiel ihrer vier Sphären in Raum und Zeit – Lithosphäre, Atmosphäre, Hydrosphäre und Biosphäre. Das heißt, dass hier viel von Gesteinen die Rede ist, von Temperaturschwankungen, Meeresspiegelkurven und Fossilien. Es ist also ein ganzheitlicher Blick, den dieses 403 Seiten starke Werk auf die Prozesse wirft, die das Entstehen und Werden unserer kosmischen Heimat im Laufe ihrer knapp 4,5 Milliarden Jahre alten Existenz bedingten. Das erste Kapitel gibt noch einen Überblick über die verschiedenen Methoden zur Entschlüsselung der noch vorhandenen Relikte. Danach geht es durch die einzelnen Ären und der Erdgeschichte, buchstäblich vom Anbeginn der Welt im Hadaikum bis zum Auftritt und Wirken des modernen Menschen im Quartär.

Abstract⎯The Kunzam La (Parahio) Formation along the Shian section of the Pin Valley was previously interpreted as containing Ediacaran-Cambrian boundary trace fossils, but re-examination of the Shian section shows that the oldest part of the section belongs to the late part of Cambrian Series 2, Stage 4, which contradicts the previous interpretation. The trace fossil assemblage comprises ?Arborichnus isp., Archaeonassa isp., Diplichnites isp., Hormosiroidea isp., Monomorphichnus lineatus, Bergaueria aff. langi, Palaeophycus tubularis, Rusophycus isp., and Treptichnus-like fossils that occur stratigraphically below the Oryctocephalus indicus biozone (Series 3, Stage 5) along the section and belong to the late part of Series 2, Stage 4. Sedimentary structures recorded along the section include hummocky cross-stratification (HCS) with deeply bioturbated tops, trough-and low-angle cross stratification, ball and pillow structures and climbing-ripple cross stratification. Integrated ichnofabric and sedimentological data suggest a storm-dominated, lower to upper shoreface shallow-marine environment of deposition.

The Talassemtane National Park and the Ghomara Coast (TNP-GC) natural area, registered in the list of the exceptional patrimony of Morocco by the UNESCO, are characterized by their great biodiversity integrated in the Intercontinental Biosphere Reserve of the Mediterranean. Although authorities are very interested in valorization and protection of biodiversity (flora and fauna), the interest in geological heritage is still much lower. So, this paper tries to expose and give value to the very best sites of geologic interest (Geosites and Geodiversity sites) recognizable in the area. Forty-one sites are proposed as suitable to be considered as geological heritage. Twenty-nine of which are organized in three accessible georoutes (Oued Laou Valley and Ghomara Coast, Talambote-Akchour, and Chaouen-Ametrasse, respectively), and 12 others are located on trails and forest tracks inside or near the TNP. The 41 selected sites display a great variety of geological typologies as structural geology, stratigraphy-sedimentology, paleontology, geomaterials, petrology, geomorphology, and hydrogeology-hydraulic. In order to classify and rank (avoiding subjectivity) the sites and georoutes, a numerical methodology based on recent literature is applied. The scientific value (SV), potential educational value (PEV), and potential touristic value (PTV) are quantified (using several criteria in each case), making easy for possible users to select the most suitable route according to their goals. The degradation risk (DR) is also measured giving political and technical managers of the region important keys for an adequate geoconservation action plan. Finally, some actions following the criteria of the Global Geoparks Network by the UNESCO are proposed for the better conservation of the sites but also to contribute to education and promote tourism. These actions would also stimulate economic activity and sustainable development in the area by attracting increasing numbers of visitors.

Formasi Talang Akar Pada Graben Bandar Agung dan Tanjung Miring, Sub-Cekungan Palembang Selatan evaluasi menggunakan data geokimia dari dua puluh sampel sedimen (cuttings) dari empat sumur eksplorasi untuk analisis batuan induk meliputi kuantitas, kualitas, dan kematangan. Penelitian lebih lanjut menggunakan tiga ekstrak batuan yang dianalisis menggunakan metode geokimia molekular terdiri atas n-alkana, isoprenoids, terpana, dan sterana untuk mengetahui karakteristik geokimia organik, asal material organik, paleodepositinal setting , dan potensinya untuk menggenerasikan hidrokarbon. Berdasarkan hasil analisis geokimia organik, Formasi Talang Akar pada Graben Bandar Agung dan Tanjung miring memiliki kekayaan material organik good sampai excellent dengan tingkat kematangan early mature sampai peak mature . Sampel batubara pada Graben Tanjung Miring dan sampel batulempung pada Graben Bandar Agung merupakan bagian dari Formasi Talang Akar Bawah yang diendapkan pada lingkungan fluvio-del...

Geocultural sites are locations where the connection between human history and geo-features is meaningful. In areas currently divided also by national boundaries, it is crucial to determine how the landscape influenced the settlement of past human populations. The Balzi Rossi geosite is a long-lasting investigated archaeological area including caves, rock shelters, and open-air archaeological sites located along the Liguro-Provençal Coast, in the Italian territory, not far from the border with France. Therein, a stratigraphic record preserving more than 200 ky of human exploitation of natural resources and response to northwestern Mediterranean Sea-level fluctuations and climate change is preserved. Local archaeological evidence encompasses the occupational phases of the Neanderthal population and the appearance of Homo sapiens, thus attributing to the Balzi Rossi cliff a very high scientific value. The SPHeritage Project is aimed at deepening interdisciplinary investigations, towards the sustainable promotion of local geocultural heritage in collaboration with community leaders and stakeholders. In this contribution, we discuss the results of a survey performed among an international team of scientists involved in the research project to assess the scientific and cultural value of the site. Additionally, the outcomes of a World Cafè initiative that involved local community leaders and stakeholders confirm the uniqueness of the Balzi Rossi site and its high potential of promotion. Such activities highlight the possibility of reinforcing the connection between geocultural sites spread along the Liguro-Provençal Coast through the planning of outdoor paths and multimedia activities based on innovative tools. These proposals may improve the territorial governance and strengthen the 'sense of place' in local population.

The reservoir characterization and identification of shale oil in Talang Akar formation has been done by examining the total organic carbon (TOC), brittleness index (BI) and some maturity parameters. Analyzing said parameters, various methods were used to analyze these parameters, including geochemistry, mineralogy, petrophysics, crossplotting, and seismic interpretation. Through geochemistry analysis, TOC resulted in a good category with material type of kerogen I-II which usually produces oil with an early maturity window which approximately 7900 ft. The brittleness index of the shale formation of the research area is categorized in less brittle to brittle. The petrophysics analysis resulted in shard thickness between 120-150 ft in the research area and TOC modelling resulted in 0.6986 regression coefficient towards log parameters (gamma ray log, density, Neutro-Porosity, sonic and resistivity). Through seismic analysis and interpretation, we are able to examine the shard distribution of the net shale ratio that is linked with the RMS value from amplitude extraction, with a result of a zone with 20 ms window in the interest zone (TOC 4.1523 %, BI 0.3869 v/v ) and 0.5889 regression coefficient. The interest zone that has shard potential exists in the basin with volumetric oil in place value of 46.68 MMBO. The parameters of TOC, BI and maturity do not have any direct correlations, but they does have an important role in determining the potential contained within shale.

the kind of tourist supply (mainly flora and fauna) that more traditional natural parks offer. Secondly, it is flanked by a protected sea area which further diversifies the supply side of tourism. From the supply side perspective, the Cinque Terre National Park has much to offer: 1. more than 20 hiking paths or trails that range from easy strolls to difficult hikes 2. some not very large beaches 3. protected sea area with diving enabled and rich sea-flora and fauna 4. a network of monuments numbering more than 25 throughout the territory as well as museums and open-air art such as murals etc. Reports are on the website www.smarthistory.it Pdf file with detailed information about choosen path Panoramic image showing choosen sanctuary (Saviole).

García-Rodríguez M., Fernández-Escalante E. (2025). Geoclimbing at La Pedriza del Manzanares (Madrid, Spain). Natural and anthropogenic weathering processes, 84 - 88 pp. In: Bollati IM, Brustia E, Melelli L, Monge-Ganuzas M, Pica A, Pompili R, Rodrigues J, Rouget I (Eds.) (2025). ProGEO SW Europe Regional Working Group Virtual Conference on Geoconservation (2nd Edition), Abstracts Book, 27-29 March, 128 pp.

Mark A. Williams , Gianluca Tronti , Raiza Sartori Peruzzo ,
Manuel García-Rodríguez , Eugenio Fazio , Michele Zucali , Irene Maria Bollati (2025). Geoscience popularisation in Geoparks: A common workflow for digital outcrop modelling. Computers & Geosciences, Volume 201, 105945

Geodiversity has gained increasing attention, prompting geoscientists to advocate for its recognition to promote holistic nature conservation. UNESCO Global Geoparks (UGGps) have expanded globally, promoting geoheritage and contributing to geoconservation and sustainable tourism. In this framework, the IGCP 714 project, "3GEO-Geoclimbing & Geotrekking in Geoparks," launched in 2021, aims to use Geographical Information Technologies (GIT)-including GIS, remote sensing, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), and other geospatial tools-to enhance geoscience communication within UGGps. However, there is still a significant need for a repeatable, accessible, low-cost, and effective workflow to integrate these digital technologies into geoscience communication effectively. This study developed a workflow for creating Digital Outcrop Models (DOMs) of geosites and geodiversity sites used for recreational climbing and trekking. Using technologies such as UAVs and Smartphones equipped with LiDAR sensors, the workflow generates DOMs that can be integrated into web-GIS applications and Virtual Reality experiences, offering interactive educational content. Four examples are described, illustrating the implementation of the DOM workflow from the outcrop scale (La Pedriza Granitic Batholith, Spain, and Etna Volcano Lava Tube, Italy) to the terrane scale (Organ Pipes Columnar Jointing, Australia, and Baceno Tectonic Window, Italy). The workflow is designed to produce DOMs for public and student engagement, demonstrating their potential for broader educational and geoconservation applications. Moreover, the workflow aims to build capacity among Geopark practitioners and researchers by improving techniques for creating content on geoheritage features and enhancing geoscience communication. For this, the workflow is designed to be repeatable by employing common and relatively low-cost GIT tools. We discuss the need for investment in capability, software, and hardware to equip Geopark practitioners with the skills required to implement this workflow. By applying this workflow to create DOMs of geoheritage features, we demonstrate its potential to enhance the appreciation of geodiversity, support education and research, and promote sustainable geotourism within UGGps.

The Călimani National Park (CNP), legally founded in 2000 in order to ensure the highest level of protection for the unique natural and scientific values it hosts, is the largest protected volcanic area in Romania. It covers a significant part of the Călimani Mountains representing the largest, highest, and most voluminous segment of the Neogene Călimani-Gurghiu-Harghita volcanic range. The natural values under protection in the CNP include the unique highmountain volcanic landscape hosting glacial and periglacial features, lakes and marshes, spectacular rock formations, and unique floral elements. Due to their outstanding scientific value, the botanical Science Reserve of Juniperus with Pinus cembra, the geographical Iezer Lake Science Reserve, and the geological B12 Apostles^Science Reserve are subject to the highest legal level of protection. CPN also hosts damaged natural values of geoheritage importance. This is the place where the phenomenon of volcanic karst was described for the first time, and the term Bvulcanokarst^coined. Open-pit sulfur mining destroyed its original features and only poor traces of them can be found today. The high-mountain volcanic landscape was also catastrophically damaged by mining. However, remediation and re-cultivation activities in the open-pit area significantly attenuated the damage. Little attention is paid by the Park's management to the valuation of the geological and volcanological features deserving higher levels of protection. Most of them are not even known to the wider public, with the exception of geologists. Touristic valuation of the area was recently enhanced by the remediation of the old BMaria Theresia road^linking Transylvania and Bukovina across the mountains. There is still a lot to do in order to fully take advantage of the natural values of geoheritage relevance hosted by the CNP, in teaching, research and touristic/leisure activities. Actions to be undertaken to this end suggested here include organization of thematic workshops, conferences, exhibitions, and field practice for students, professionals and the general public focused on geoheritage values, placing geoeducational boards along touristic trails, devising field guides and promotional material, and connecting the Călimani Mts. to broader touristic networks such as the proposed BPannonian volcano route.K eywords Geoheritage . Călimani Mts. . Romania . Volcano . Volcanic karst . Caldera

The territory of Brazil has a high potential for the development of geotourism, due to its natural and cultural diversity. The State Tourist Park of Alto Ribeira (PETAR) is one of the oldest protected areas in the State of São Paulo, created in 1958. The importance of the area is the result of the association between the Atlantic Rainforest with an exceptional biodiversity and karst and caves systems with a unique underground scenario. The area presents distinct tectonic environments that represent the Precambrian geological evolution of south-southeastern Brazil. The karst and caves of the PETAR were already recorded and described as an important national area to the speleological, geological, and paleontological interest, as also classified as UNESCO's Natural Heritage and included in a proposal to the creation of a Geopark. In the present work, there were inventoried and quantified 19 geosites in the region of PETAR, most of them with speleological interest. The inventory was conducted using the following criteria: representativeness, integrity, accessibility, and scientific and esthetic value. The quantification of geosites was based on four categories of values: intrinsic value, scientific value, tourism value, and value of management. Finally, the relevance of each geosite was calculated, evidencing one geosite with international (Santana cave) and other 12 with national relevance. The conclusions raise the necessity of planning and implementing management procedures to increase the conservation and sustainable use of the analyzed geosites, despite that they are located in a natural protected area.