The role of geoparks in geoconservation: a study on Geopark Terras de Cavaleiros

Abstract

This work is a reflection on the importance of Geoconservation. Geoconservation is a recent concept, it refers to the protection of important examples of geodiversity. It is important and necessary to protect certain geological elements, since they contain relevant information about the evolution of our planet and must be made known and preserved. Talking about Geoconservation is a huge challenge, this research aims to present the relevance of geoconservation in the conservation of geodiversity and geological heritage, and the role of Geoparks in Geoconservation, based on bibliographic consultation of articles, books, theses and dissertations relevant to the theme . These concepts have been increasingly adopted in the field of Geosciences, as the geoconservation of natural elements, composed of abiotic elements, is a necessity for maintaining the quality of life of species on the planet, as well as leading to an understanding of the origin and evolution of this planet. It should also be clarified that the geological heritage includes all the notable elements that constitute geodiversity, encompassing, therefore, the paleontological, mineralogical, geomorphological, petrological, hydrological, among others (Brilha, 2005).