134-1 Geodefinitions of Geowords—What Exactly IS Geoheritage?

Session: Crossing Boundaries: Histories of Geoheritage

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Geoheritage has experienced a surge of awareness and activity in the United States in recent years. As use of the word increases, clarity of the definition of “geoheritage” and of associated terminology becomes more important. A proliferation of geo-words has led to a certain amount of confusion in the growing geoheritage community. Deliberate mindfulness of the associated words can provide more opportunity for clarity in the expanding cross-border conversation about geoheritage and related opportunities and benefits.

International geoheritage practice focuses on the geoconservation of geosites (with a science focus) and promotes geotourism. United States geoheritage additionally emphasizes geoeducation with a goal of increasing geoliteracy. Both systems have an increasing emphasis on communication of geodiversity. Geoheritage is commonly conflated with geoconservation, because the two terms are so closely intertwined.

Geoconservation is the practice of recognizing, protecting, and managing locations and landscapes important for their geological or geomorphological value. Numerous systems exist at various scales for public geoconservation (UNESCO World Heritage Sites, IUGS, ProGEO, NPS, state and local parks). Geosites are specific locations that illustrate significant geological or geomorphological features or processes. The IUGS, NPS, and USGS provide excellent catalogs of geosites. Geotourism is a form of tourism that focuses on geological features but can also be about appreciating or enhancing the unique character of a place with a goal of sustainability. Geoeducation is the process of learning about and understanding the Earth's systems, environments, and the interactions between them. Organizations such as AGI and NAGT excel at geoeducation considerations. Geodiversity is the holistic consideration of the variety of Earth's non-living or abiotic components, including rocks, minerals, fossils, landforms, soils, and geological processes.  And finally… geoheritage is an interdisciplinary approach to recognizing and communicating the importance of geology, often illustrated at key locations, in understanding the legacy of our science, economy, culture, and history. Geoheritage connects our science to society.

Geological Society of America Abstracts with Program. Vol. 57, No. 6, 2025

doi: 10.1130/abs/2025AM-10838

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