Leveraging Earth science research for effective sustainability policy and territorial management in the Chablais UNESCO Global Geopark (France)

This article shows how the process of undertaking geoscience research can enrich public knowledge and appreciation of Earth science methods, concepts and systems. Place-based organizations such as UNESCO Global Geoparks (UGGps) act as moderators between researchers and territorial stakeholders in order to foster greater sensibility around geosciences and society. Policy and actions to address sustainable development, climate change and biodiversity issues are being developed rapidly, but generally geoscience contributions and the part they play are not explicitly presented. The Chablais UGGp developed an approach to improve public and stakeholder Earth science literacy. The methodology was tested in three research projects where the UGGp moderated between researchers and local stakeholders. It further leveraged the research activity to a wider public through diverse communication channels and activities. The experience demonstrated that active participation in research projects enabled politicians to develop greater Earth science understanding and a heightened awareness of its relevance to society. This geoscience literacy enables decision makers to deliver a deeper, more integrated territorial management and sustainable development that is inclusive of Earth sciences.