Conserving the Earth's Geological Heritage: A Comprehensive Review of Geoheritage Management
摘要
Geoheritage refers to geological features, landforms, and deposits that possess significant scientific, educational, cultural, or aesthetic value. This comprehensive review paper explores the multifaceted concept of geoheritage, its various components, the threats faced by geoheritage sites worldwide, and the diverse strategies employed for their effective conservation and management. Geoheritage encompasses a wide array of sites, including geological formations, fossil localities, mineralogical occurrences, and landscapes of exceptional geological interest. However, these irreplaceable resources are increasingly imperilled by both natural processes, such as erosion and weathering, and human activities like urbanization, mining, and unsustainable tourism practices. Proactive measures for the preservation of geoheritage sites are thus of paramount importance. This review delves into legislative frameworks, protected area designations, community involvement initiatives, sustainable tourism practices, and other approaches implemented globally for geoheritage conservation. Additionally, it examines the challenges and future directions in this field, emphasizing the need for increased public awareness, international cooperation, and a balanced approach that harmonizes conservation efforts with sustainable development goals. By comprehensively examining the multifaceted aspects of geoheritage management, this review contributes to advancing our understanding and promoting effective strategies for safeguarding the Earth's geological legacy for present and future generations.