Agenda
- 16:00-17:30 (CET)
- 16:00-16:10 Introduction by Kirstin Lemon, Chair of the Geoheritage Expert Group (BGS, Northern Ireland)
- 16:10-16:30 ‘Management of geoheritage in protected areas’ by Enrique Díaz-Martínez (IGME-CSIC, Spain)
- 16:30-16:50 ‘UNESCO Global Geoparks and protected areas: examples from the UK’ by Kirstin Lemon (BGS, Northern Ireland)
- 16:50-17:10 ‘Protected areas and geoconservation in Slovenia’ by Matevž Novak (GeoZS, Slovenia)
- 17:10-17:30 Q&A
Description
Management of geoheritage in protected areas’ by Enrique Díaz-Martínez
Proper management of geoheritage in protected areas involves identifying, inventorying, and assessing geological heritage sites to integrate them into strategy and action plans. Unlike habitats and species, geoheritage is a non-renewable natural resource, and the objective of geoconservation is to protect selected sites from potential threats. The process includes establishing conservation practices, promoting sustainable geotourism, and monitoring impacts to balance conservation with public use, as guided by IUCN protected area management categories.
UNESCO Global Geoparks and protected areas: examples from the UK’ by Kirstin Lemon
UNESCO Global Geoparks are seen as exemplars for geoconservation with internationally important geological heritage central to their designation. However, the way in which each UNESCO Global Geopark protects their geological heritage varies depending on several factors including their management structure and legal status. Drawing on practical examples from the UK, this session will highlight effective management approaches, community engagement strategies, and innovative partnerships that support the long-term protection of geological sites. This webinar offers valuable insights into how protected area frameworks can strengthen geoheritage conservation while fostering education, sustainable tourism, and local pride.
Protected areas and geoconservation in Slovenia’ by Matevž Novak
Protected geoheritage areas that are inhabited face the challenge of balancing preservation of the natural environment with human interventions for economic needs and safety purposes. Dovžanova soteska (Dovžan Gorge) is one of the most interesting geological sites in Slovenia, revealing a long section of Late Paleozoic rocks. It is one of the most fossil-rich areas in the Southern Alps and has high scientific and historical significance. Since 1988, it has been protected as a natural monument. Due to the geological structure, steep terrain, and the torrential flow, the area is subject to rapid and significant natural changes, which are particularly intense during extreme weather events and can cause material damage. The Dovžan Gorge has been proven to be an excellent site for studying natural processes, anthropogenic influences, and human perception of natural disasters and historical memory of them.
Live webinar will be recorded and will be available on EuroGeoSurveys YouTube