Sustainable Geotourism: Economic and Environmental Benefits for Rural Development

Dear Colleagues,

Several key trends are reshaping the tourism industry, including the rise of experiential travel, the increasing demand for sustainable and wellness-focused travel, and the integration of technology for personalized experiences and seamless booking. Additionally, trends like bleisure travel, digital nomadism, and shorter, more frequent trips are gaining popularity.

The impacts of geotourism strategies at different latitudes, and how they can be used as examples for the tourism industry, need to be discussed within a global framework, with the understanding that human activities exact a heavy price in climate change, the exploitation of natural resources, and cultural homogenization. Major criticisms of geotourism include overtourism and touristification, which can lead to the exploitation and degradation of geological sites and local communities, and the subordination of geotourism experiences to commercial needs, potentially diminishing their educational and cultural value. Additionally, there are concerns about the potential for environmental damage, social impacts on local residents, and the need for sustainable management practices.

Sustainable geotourism represents a strategic approach to harnessing the unique geological features of a region for economic and environmental benefits, particularly in rural areas. By emphasizing the conservation and promotion of geological heritage, geotourism can become a key driver of local economies. This approach not only attracts tourists and new settlers to rural areas but also creates jobs and supports local businesses, from guides to hospitality services.

The environmental benefits of sustainable geotourism are equally significant, as they promote conservation efforts and communities’ awareness of geological sites. By fostering a deeper understanding of Earth's processes, this type of tourism can lead to increased public support for protecting valuable landscapes.

The integration of sustainable geotourism into rural development strategies can also enhance cultural understanding and community engagement. Involving local communities in tourism initiatives presents an opportunity to celebrate and protect not only geological heritage but also cultural traditions linked to the landscape. Successful examples include the UNESCO Global Geoparks, where community-guided tours and local storytelling enhance visitor experiences and strengthen cultural identity. Thus, sustainable geotourism not only contributes to economic development but also ensures that both natural and cultural heritage are preserved for future generations.

Geotourism and regenerative tourism are complementary approaches that focus on the sustainable and restorative use of geological and natural resources for tourism. Geotourism emphasizes the appreciation of geological heritage, while regenerative tourism aims to leave places better than they were found, ensuring environmental, social, and economic benefits. The economic benefits of integrating geotourism with regenerative tourism are significant, particularly for rural areas. By attracting tourists interested in both the geological aspects and wellbeing of the local environment and communities, there is potential for increased tourism revenue and regeneration of rural landscapes.

Regenerative practices in geotourism also offer profound environmental benefits by encouraging restoration and active stewardship of natural landscapes. Initiatives that focus on rewilding, habitat restoration, and the use of eco-friendly technologies can enhance biodiversity and resilience.

This Special Issue aims to contribute to the global discussion regarding the benefits and adverse impacts of establishing tourism in outstanding or even unique geological settings. A central element in this discussion is the development of community-centered tourism activities and products focused on geological heritage. Equally as important is how geotourism can support rural economies and cultural diversity in a world of increasing interdependence. Other aspects to explore include improving the circular economy, networking, the applications of AI in the tourism industry and marketing of destinations, new rural communities and digital nomads, the strengthening of community resilience to natural hazards, contributing to the reduction of tourism’s environmental impacts, and adapting to climate change.

Dr. Carlos Neto De Carvalho
Guest Editor

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• geoparks
• regenerative tourism
• community engagement
• geoproducts
• genuine sustainable communication
• educational opportunities
• climate change and tourism
• inclusive geotourism
• digital geonomadism