Geosites, geomorphosites and geoparks: importance, actual situation and perspectives in Mexico

Abstract

Geosites, Geomorphosites and Geoparks are strategies for conservation, education and sustainable development. During the past two decades, and particularly in this century, international networks on these issues have increased significantly, which has led to its recognition by international bodies that regulate their operation. While in many countries worldwide these strategies have proven effective, in Mexico its development is still in its infancy, despite the existence of some groups and individuals who have made work about it and that country conditions appear favorable for their development. Among the reasons for the lack of studies on these issues are: the lack of a legal framework that recognizes and values explicitly the importance of geology and geomorphology focused on conservation, education and sustainable development and the apparent bias towards biotic environmental legislation embodied in our country. The contribution of these strategies to local development takes place mainly from activities like Geotourism, whose positive impact in several reported cases is outstanding. We conclude that these strategies are potentially applicable in Mexico and compatible with other figures aimed at environmental conservation.

Keywords

• Geositios
• geomorfositios
• geoparques
• áreas naturales protegidas
• conservación
• geoturismo