Management of Geosites in Geoparks Based on the Quantitative and Potencial Threats Assessment: Example of the Emerging Zemplín Geopark

Geopark as an area of geological significance reaches its goals not only through the education, geotourism and promoting the geological heritage, but also deals with protection of nature and geoconservation. Geopark management must focus its attention not only on the usefulness of geosites to society, but also for protecting of geoheritage for its intrinsic, scientific and educational value, that contributes to knowledge of the evolution of the Earth, and preserving for future generations. The current approaches to geosite assessment are typically based on key criteria: scientific value, potential educational and touristic use, and degradation risk. This article introduces a new framework by defining four categories based on the significance of geosites and the level of potential threats, that result from the integration of two methodologies – quantitative assessment and potential threats assessment. This combined approach can contribute to more effective geosite management and may support decision-making processes within the emerging Zemplín Geopark. Specifically, it can help identify geosites suitable for experiential tourism and interactive education, as well as those of high scientific importance and uniqueness in the area, which therefore require prioritised protection and geoconservation.