International Journal of Geoheritage and Parks最新文献

{"title":"Geosites and geodiversity sites of the Tinghir–Dades–Imilchil area, Morocco: Toward conservation, education, and tourism development","authors":"Mohamed El Ouali ,&nbsp;Lahcen Kabiri ,&nbsp;Badre Essafraoui ,&nbsp;Mohamed Ben Bammou ,&nbsp;Ismail Ait Lahssaine ,&nbsp;Badre Messaoudi ,&nbsp;Rowan Martindale","doi":"10.1016/j.ijgeop.2025.10.002","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijgeop.2025.10.002","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The Tinghir-Dades-Imilchil area is a geosite of high scientific, educational, and touristic values in the Draa-Tafilalet Region, southeast Morocco. It has a rich geodiversity, including mountain ranges, plains, deserts, plateaus, and coasts, offering geomorphological and panoramic views, oases, lacks, and unique geological features (e.g., structural geology, sedimentology, petrography, paleontology, and hydrogeology). This paper focuses on the inventory and quantitative assessment of 25 sites of geological interest using the Global Methodology based on scientific value (SV), potential educational use (PEU) and potential touristic use (PTU), and degradation risk (DR) of each site. Indeed, SV is very high for 15 sites, high for 9 sites, and moderate for 1 site; PEU is very high for 21 sites and high for 4 sites; PTU is very high for 8 sites and high for 17 sites; and DR is high for 10 sites and moderate for 15 sites. Thus, 15 geosites (sites with very high SV values) and 10 geodiversity sites (sites with very high PEU or PTU values) are identified. These sites show highly significant scientific, educational, and touristic potentialities that should be valued and protected from degradation. Our work fits in well with the National Program of the Geology of Morocco-2030 strategy and the UNESCO directives, which aim at the inventory, awareness, valorization, and preservation of geological heritage. In addition, identifying and valuing these sites will help increase the area's attractiveness, preserve the environment, and protect and enhance the region's geological history by introducing the geoheritage concept into its local and regional development plans. Suggested recommendations for their valorization and preservation constitute a valuable tool for local stakeholders to program their future sustainable actions and to improve the living conditions of the local population by creating new employment opportunities.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":36117,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Geoheritage and Parks","volume":"13 4","pages":"Pages 652-670"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145797032","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Corrigendum to ‘Geoheritage of tropical regions: An overview’ [International Journal of Geoheritage and Parks, Volume 13, Issue 3, 388–411]","authors":"Adolfo Quesada-Román ,&nbsp;Manuel Peralta-Reyes ,&nbsp;Károly Németh ,&nbsp;Ghislain Zangmo Tefogoum ,&nbsp;Javier Dóniz-Páez ,&nbsp;Zbigniew Zwoliński ,&nbsp;Maria da Glória Motta Garcia ,&nbsp;Małgorzata Mazurek ,&nbsp;Piotr Migoń","doi":"10.1016/j.ijgeop.2025.11.001","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijgeop.2025.11.001","url":null,"abstract":"","PeriodicalId":36117,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Geoheritage and Parks","volume":"13 4","pages":"Page 691"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145883635","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Site suitability evaluation for ecotourism using geographic information system (GIS) and analytical hierarchy process (AHP) in Aroresa and Chire districts, Southern Ethiopia","authors":"Temesgen Kolcha ,&nbsp;Mikias Biazen ,&nbsp;Zerihun Girma","doi":"10.1016/j.ijgeop.2025.12.001","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijgeop.2025.12.001","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The significance of ecotourism has gained increasing recognition due to its contributions to environmental conservation and sustainable development. This study aims to identify potential sites for ecotourism development in the Aroresa and Chire districts, Sidama Region. A combination of field observations, key informant interviews, and spatial data analysis was used to identify the main ecotourism resources and assess the suitability of potential sites. River, land use land cover, natural attraction, elevation, road, slope, rainfall, temperature, and cultural attraction were used to prepare the criteria maps. Geographic information and remote sensing software were used to evaluate the site for ecotourism. The analytical hierarchy process was also applied to derive the relative weights of criteria maps, followed by a weighted overlay analysis to generate the final suitability map. The findings indicate that the districts are endowed with a wealth of natural, cultural, and historical attractions, including diverse flora and fauna, scenic landscapes, waterfalls, wetlands, and cultural heritage sites. The suitability analysis showed that a considerable portion of the districts (65.5% in Aroresa and 82.8% in Chire) are moderately suitable for ecotourism, with smaller areas being highly suitable (9.1% in Aroresa and 6.1% in Chire) or marginally suitable. The researchers recommend that decision-makers prioritize the promotion and development of these identified ecotourism potentials and suitable sites to foster the growth of ecotourism destinations, thereby contributing to environmental conservation and sustainable development in the region.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":36117,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Geoheritage and Parks","volume":"13 4","pages":"Pages 601-615"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145746914","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Discovering the Earth: Design and implementation of geoeducation strategies and their social impact in rural areas of Chicamocha Canyon: Case study at Instituto Valle del Río de Oro, Piedecuesta (Colombia)","authors":"Laura Juliana García-Cala ,&nbsp;Leinys Carolina Vega-Angarita ,&nbsp;Carlos Alberto Ríos-Reyes ,&nbsp;Luz Stella Viviescas-Beltrán","doi":"10.1016/j.ijgeop.2025.01.005","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijgeop.2025.01.005","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This study focuses on designing and implementing geoeducation programs at Instituto Valle del Río de Oro in Piedecuesta, Colombia. These programs aim to enhance academic understanding of local geology while integrating heritage values to maximize educational and social impact. Pedagogical strategies were customized for different age groups and educational levels. The approach included using a structured educational booklet and practical activities such as volcanic eruption simulations and fossil replicas to promote hands-on learning. The results demonstrated significant improvements in students' academic performance and geological understanding. Statistical analyses revealed increased average scores and reduced knowledge variability after participating in the programs. Surveys also indicated a positive shift in students' perception toward the geological and cultural heritage of the Chicamocha Canyon, reflecting heightened appreciation and commitment to its conservation. This study highlights the effectiveness of geoeducation strategies not only in enhancing geology education but also in strengthening students' cultural and environmental identities. Integrating heritage values into geoeducation emerges as a crucial approach for fostering critical awareness and responsible stewardship of local natural and cultural resources. By presenting successful educational strategies, this research contributes valuable insights into how geoeducation can enhance academic outcomes and promote deeper connections with geological and cultural heritage. It underscores the broader societal benefits of integrating heritage values into educational frameworks, applicable to similar contexts globally.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":36117,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Geoheritage and Parks","volume":"13 4","pages":"Pages 506-519"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145746916","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Residents' willingness to pay for heritage conservation: Insight from a discrete choice experiment","authors":"Wu Feifei,&nbsp;Norlida Hanim Mohd Salleh","doi":"10.1016/j.ijgeop.2025.07.001","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijgeop.2025.07.001","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This study examines the willingness to pay (WTP) of 488 Quanzhou residents for the conservation of World Heritage Sites (WHS) using a discrete choice experiment (DCE) and a mixed logit (MXL) model. The results indicate that residents are willing to pay CNY 19.35 per month for high-level community well-being improvements, CNY 25.83 for high cultural engagement, and CNY 20.60 for job creation related to tourism. In contrast, the WTP for direct heritage preservation is lower, with CNY 8.17 for high-level preservation. These findings highlight a preference for enhancing community infrastructure and cultural activities over direct conservation efforts. The research not only provides valuable insights for enhancing local participation in Quanzhou but also serves as a reference for government. By analyzing the WTP, governments and cultural organizations can develop targeted initiatives that foster civic engagement and public support for decision-making, thereby advancing democratic governance. This study deepens the understanding of the relationship between community involvement and heritage conservation and informs more effective policies that align local interests with sustainable cultural preservation.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":36117,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Geoheritage and Parks","volume":"13 4","pages":"Pages 493-505"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145448562","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Comparative analysis of UNESCO Global Geoparks management: Massif des Bauges (France) and M'Goun (Morocco)","authors":"Kottabi Salah Eddine ,&nbsp;Benzidiya Khalid ,&nbsp;El Khalki Yahia ,&nbsp;Hobléa Fabien ,&nbsp;Perrin-Malterre Clémence","doi":"10.1016/j.ijgeop.2025.11.003","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijgeop.2025.11.003","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>In the framework of a collaborative programme on dynamic landscapes involving the Landscape Dynamics, Risks and Heritage laboratory (Morocco) and Environment, Dynamic, Territory and Montagne laboratory (France), this paper investigates the management plans, actions, and activities adopted by two UNESCO Global Geoparks (UGGp): (a) the Massif des Bauges UNESCO Global Geopark in France, recognised as a European Geopark in 2011, located in a developed country with a long experience in heritage enhancement, and (b) the M'Goun UNESCO Global Geopark in Morocco, recognised in 2014 as the first African geopark, a pioneer in the development of geoheritage on this continent. The results show that there is not a “one-size-fits-all” approach to UNESCO Global Geoparks management. An effective strategy requires permanent financing, as well as a dynamic and participatory management structure that engages a broad network of local actors and stakeholders. This structure should operate, according to a clearly defined plan, with consensus reached between decision-makers and the local community, underpinned by transparency and authenticity. The management plan should prioritise the development of integrated strategies across four key pillars. It should: i) focus on effective geoconservation of heritage in alignment with national regulations; ii) incorporate awareness-raising and educational initiatives, setting clear objectives for geoeducation programmes to complement; (iii) initiate and encourage geotourism activities; and iv) emphasise the appreciation and promotion of local geoproducts, reflecting the community’s cultural identity and landscape perception.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":36117,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Geoheritage and Parks","volume":"13 4","pages":"Pages 579-600"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145746911","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Geomorphological perspective of geodiversity: A case study of Al–Zubaidat area, east of Misan Governorate (Iraq)","authors":"Bashar F. Maaroof ,&nbsp;Hashim H. Kareem ,&nbsp;Ban Al-Hasani ,&nbsp;Iacopo Carnacina ,&nbsp;Mawada Abdellatif ,&nbsp;Nadhir Al-Ansari ,&nbsp;Rayan G. Thannoun ,&nbsp;Jaffar H. Al-Zubaydi ,&nbsp;Varoujan K. Sissakian ,&nbsp;Mohammed A. Al-Musawi ,&nbsp;Raheem H. Al-Abdan ,&nbsp;Jaafar Jotheri ,&nbsp;Hussain M. Hussain ,&nbsp;Manal Sh. Al-Kubaisi ,&nbsp;Ahmed M. Hashoosh","doi":"10.1016/j.ijgeop.2025.11.002","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijgeop.2025.11.002","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This research investigates the geodiversity of the AL-Zubaidat region in Southeastern Iraq, with a focus on its geomorphological and hydrological characteristics. This information helps researchers identify suitable locations for natural reserves, thereby enhancing the protection of Iraqi biodiversity. The region attracts eco-tourism visitors, benefiting the economy and providing various scientific, cultural, educational, and aesthetic benefits. This research employed the geoinformatics methodology for geospatial analysis, constructing a comprehensive geodatabase, categorizing spatial features through topographic, geological, and hydrological maps, and correlating data with satellite imagery and elevation models. Geodiversity was classified according to physical parameters and international criteria, with the final classification attributes formulated utilizing maps, field photographs, and geodatabases. The research employed specific parameters to analyze the geomorphometric and slope diversity of the Al-Zubaidat area watersheds. The study area in Al-Zubaidat comprises dome-shaped hills, tertiary geological formations, valleys, and badlands. The area encompasses 782.308 km² and shall consist of three principal watersheds (Al-Sharhani, Abu-Ghraibat, and Al-Shakak), as well as 12 sub-watersheds. The watershed perimeter is correlated with the circulating ratio, form factor, and elongation ratio, with larger perimeters generally indicating larger basin areas. The region encompasses low-slope terrain, with elevated slope values in the northern sections, especially in the headwaters. Geoheritage, geodiversity, geoconservation, and geoparks can facilitate sustainable development, promote healthy lifestyles, and foster cultural diversity. These initiatives are crucial for policymakers and regional stakeholders in semi-arid and developing regions, particularly in Southeast Asia, to enhance income and protect vulnerable natural resources.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":36117,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Geoheritage and Parks","volume":"13 4","pages":"Pages 616-637"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145746915","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Assessment of influencing factors and development directions for economic growth through community-based tourism of ethnic minorities: A case study of Dien Bien and Cao Bang, Vietnam","authors":"Xinh Luong Ho ,&nbsp;Quang Van Nguyen","doi":"10.1016/j.ijgeop.2025.04.001","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijgeop.2025.04.001","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Dien Bien and Cao Bang are two mountainous provinces in the north of Vietnam that have diverse ethnic profiles and great potential for community-based tourism (CBT), which is inherent with been numerous challenges in the association between ethnic minorities and economic development. Thus, this study was to identify key factors affecting the success of CBT and provide recommendations for enhancing sustainability in these regions. Qualitative and quantitative data were collected through other literature from both studies and official documents and field surveys conducted among local residents, tourists, and key stakeholders. The data were then analyzed using regression and thematic analysis to determine the most influential factors. Results indicated that economic factors including income stability and equitable income distribution were the most significant determinants of CBT success. Cultural preservation and quality of life improvements were also as critical as environmental sustainability supported by effective waste management and government policies. Finally, community engagement and development policies were least influential. It was deduced that for the development of CBT in Dien Bien and Cao Bang. Stakeholders should focus on stabilizing income, preserving cultural heritage, and enhancing environmental sustainability through targeted policies and community engagement.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":36117,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Geoheritage and Parks","volume":"13 4","pages":"Pages 520-533"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145746917","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Spatial geoarchaeology of megalithic cultural site (Jere) at Ternate Aspiring National Geopark, North Maluku, Indonesia","authors":"Chusni Ansori ,&nbsp;Nurachman Iriyanto ,&nbsp;Defry Hastria ,&nbsp;Putri Novita Taniardi ,&nbsp;Abdul Karding Dedy Arif ,&nbsp;Mohamad Al Fariji","doi":"10.1016/j.ijgeop.2025.12.002","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijgeop.2025.12.002","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Ternate is an island in the Maluku archipelago, North Maluku province. Ternate Island is a volcanic island with the active volcano Gamalama. The City Government plans to establish a Ternate Geopark. Apart from geological sites such as the volcanic traces of Batu Angus, there is also a distribution of megalithic cultural artifacts in the form of menhirs and monoliths, sacred to the sultanate and the Ternate people, called <em>Jere</em>. This research was conducted to investigate the relationship between the distribution of megalithic cultural sites and their natural surroundings.The research includes field surveys, X-ray fluorescence (XRF) rock geochemical analysis, digital elevation model (DEM) analysis, overlay processes, and analytical hierarchy process (AHP) to obtain geospatial maps of the distribution of megalithic artifacts and the influence of geological parameters on cultural formation. Seven geological parameters and 47 sub-parameters are analyzed. Geological parameters include lithology, elevation, slopes, landscapes, surface water, groundwater, and volcanic hazard zones. The megalithic cultural sites era influenced three main aspects: volcanic hazard (with an influence of 37.97%; distance from rivers (with an influence of 25.75%), and geomorphology (with an influence of 13.78%). Volcanic hazard parameters are the primary consideration in site placement, especially in subparameter areas without potential disasters (with an influence of 43.86%). The river distance is less than 250 m with an influence of 43.95%, while the geomorphology of the volcano's foot influences 46.85%.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":36117,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Geoheritage and Parks","volume":"13 4","pages":"Pages 671-690"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145797031","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Geoheritage assessment of northern Tunisia: First proposal of geosites and prospects for geotourism","authors":"Kamel Maalaoui ,&nbsp;Idriss Riahi ,&nbsp;Moez Mansoura ,&nbsp;Mohamed Ouaja ,&nbsp;Fouad Zargouni","doi":"10.1016/j.ijgeop.2025.11.004","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijgeop.2025.11.004","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This study assesses the geological heritage of Northern Tunisia to propose conservation measures and promote geotourism. Using the Spanish Inventory of Sites of Geological Interest evaluation method, four volcanic geosites have been analyzed: La Galite Island, Ras Rajel, Oued Bellif, and Guelb Saad Moun. La Galite Island stands out for its unique volcanic formations and significant scientific interest, while Ras Rajel provides valuable insights into mining processes and regional geodynamics. Oued Bellif is remarkable for its iron sulfide and lead‑zinc deposits, which are essential for understanding metallogenic processes. As for Guelb Saad Moun, it is a volcanic site that serves as a key witness to the geodynamic evolution of the Mediterranean. The rigorous application of the evaluation method yielded high values, highlighting the significant scientific and educational importance of these geosites, as well as their strong tourism potential. This potential is based on outstanding landscape beauty, remarkable aesthetic quality, and easy accessibility by various means, making these sites particularly attractive to geotourists. However, vulnerability levels vary: La Galite Island and Ras Rajel present moderate risks, while Oued Bellif and Guelb Saad Moun require enhanced protection measures. This research advocates for a conservation and enhancement strategy tailored to each site, paving the way for the potential creation of a georoute and a future geopark in Northern Tunisia.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":36117,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Geoheritage and Parks","volume":"13 4","pages":"Pages 638-651"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145797030","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}