Earth science conservation in Ireland—a reappraisal

This paper assesses how geoconservation efforts in Ireland have proceeded since 2001 when a road map of intended actions was laid out. The plan to roll out a national network of geological Natural Heritage Areas (NHAs) has been augmented by a further initiative, largely driven by availability of financial resources and a demand for geological heritage data during booming economic times. Rather than focusing on NHAs, the primary effort of the Irish Geological Heritage Programme of Geological Survey Ireland is now aimed at achieving full national coverage of audited County Geological Sites (CGSs) in Ireland by 2022. CGSs can have much more local or national importance and still be geological NHAs in future. CGSs have no statutory protection, but receive effective protection through inclusion in the statutory County Development Plan of each local authority. The focus on CGSs also allows an expanded vision of what may be encompassed, such as mining heritage, urban sites and new road cuttings, as well as public amenity sites incorporating geology and educational sites. The important role of Geoparks in raising awareness of geoconservation is also reviewed.