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Optimising geopark networks for biodiversity conservation under climate change
Denis Vasiliev1, Laura Hamlet2, Rodney L Stevens3
1Turība University, 68 Graudu Street, Riga, LV-1058, Latvia.
Journal of Environmental Management
|July 3, 2025
Summary
Geoparks offer more than economic benefits; they are vital for biodiversity conservation and ecosystem services, especially under climate change. Optimizing these sites as Nature-based Climate Solutions enhances their role in adaptation and conservation efforts.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Conservation Biology
- Geosciences
Background:
- Geopark and geoheritage site networks are globally expanding, offering significant sustainable development opportunities.
- While economic benefits from tourism are recognized, the broader ecological contributions of geoparks are increasingly important.
- Geoparks, often situated in areas with diverse geomorphology and soils, are uniquely positioned to support biodiversity and ecosystem services.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the potential of geoparks and geoheritage sites as Nature-based Climate Solutions.
- To integrate geoparks into larger landscape and regional habitat networks for enhanced conservation.
- To propose adjustments in management practices and policy frameworks to support biodiversity conservation within geoparks.
Main Methods:
- Conceptual framework development for optimizing geopark value.
- Analysis of geoparks' role in biodiversity adaptation to climate change.
- Integration of landscape and regional scale habitat network considerations.
Main Results:
- Geoparks can significantly contribute to biodiversity conservation and ecosystem services under climate change.
- Strategic management and policy frameworks can enhance geoparks' function as climate-change refugia.
- Viewing geoparks as part of larger habitat networks maximizes their potential for Nature-based Climate Solutions.
Conclusions:
- Geoparks are crucial assets for sustainable development, extending beyond socio-economic gains to ecological resilience.
- Effective integration and management of geoparks can bolster biodiversity adaptation to global heating.
- Policy and landscape-level planning are essential to unlock the full potential of geoparks for climate solutions and conservation.
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