Geoheritage and Geotourism Resources: Education, Recreation, Sustainability

Dear Colleagues,

In recent years, the interest of society in the geoenvironment has been constantly increasing. Concepts such as "geosites", "geoparks", and “geodiversity” are linked to new local economic and cultural growth of the areas. Significant geosites are recognized worldwide through the activity of geoparks and benefit from the exchange of information, skills, experience and staff between geoparks. Geotourism is a form of tourism that allows the discovery of the geological peculiarities of the visited territories, combined with other natural and human resources. Geo-Education is at the core of the interest and operation of Geoparks, which are considered as ideal destinations for educational activities

The aim of the present Special Issue is to highlight ways in which geoheritage can be a very promising geotourism product that will lead to the sustainable development of society and will contribute to geo-information, education, knowledge and public awareness on issues concerning geoconservation and protection.

Among other topics, this Special Issue aims to highlight, review and evaluate the usefulness of geo-cultural features in didactics in terms of geoparks and other geotouristic attractions. Innovative methods of geo-education in geoparks are more than welcome, as well as development of research combining the geosciences with social science and humanities. The essential role of geoheritage in popularization of knowledge should be emphasized.

Original research articles and reviews are welcome. Research areas may include (but not limited to) the following:

• Scientific studies of geoheritage presenting geosites occurring in different geological and geomorphological contexts;
• Techniques for the enhancement of geoheritage;
• Significance of geoheritage in human life;
• Geosciences education for sustainability;
• Educational programmes;
• Sustainable geotourism, which highlight problems connected with the management of geological heritage;
• Sustainable use of natural and cultural heritage and resources;
• Valorisation of geo-heritage for sustainable and innovative tourism development.

Prof. Dr. Hara Drinia
Prof. Dr. Panagiotis Voudouris
Prof. Dr. Assimina Antonarakou
Guest Editors

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