Geoparks and Geosites (UNESCO)

The theme of knowledge and enhancement of geological heritage has been, in recent years, in the middle of an interesting scientific debate at National and European level, providing many inputs regarding the conservation and enhancement of sites of geological interest (geosites).
Considering the geosites  as an expression of geodiversity a territory, as a range of characters geological, geomorphological and soil in specific area, and that these characteristics are crucial for the different species that live in these areas, can be assumed that the conservation of geodiversity and geological heritage contribute to combat the loss of biodiversity and the integrity of the ecosystems.

According to the commonly accepted definition " a geosyte can be defined as a site location area or territory in which it is possible to identify a geological or geomorphological interest for conservation (WA Wimbledon, 1995)."
In Italy a number of initiatives at national, regional and local level, with the scientific support of the University, have contributed to make aware citizens about the knowledge and protection of geological heritage.
The Department Nature Protection of ISPRA, Service of Protected Areas and Territorial Planning carry out studies on the protection and enhancement of monuments and sites of geological interest.

• Geositi
• GSSP
• Geoparchi