Chancen, Herausforderungen und Risiken der Inwertsetzung des regionalen Geo-Erbes: Geotopschutz und Geotourismus im Spannungsfeld unterschiedlichster Interessen

Although the geodiversity of the Earth is hardly less remarkable than its biodiversity, to this day there is a clear discrepancy between the protection of biotic and abiotic elements both in Switzerland and internationally. In response to the increasing threat facing our geoheritage, a dynamic geopark and geotourism movement emerged in the late 1990s. As Geoparks enjoy no statuary protection, they have to combine sustainable geotourism with geo-education, in order to raise awareness for the importance and vulnerability of our geoheritage. The valorization of geoheritage offers opportunities for regional development and tourism diversification, provided that possible risks are taken into account. Based on an extensive literature review as well as own research and geotourism projects, the main opportunities, risks and challenges of sustainable geotourism are highlighted using national and international case studies.