This two-unit short course aims at introducing conference participants to the basic concepts of geodiversity, geoheritage and geoconservation.
Geodiversity (the overall abiotic elements, their values and connections of the Earth) and geoheritage studies are multidisciplinary, drawing from all sides of geosciences and extending them into the humanities, geoarchaeology, spatial planning, territorial and risk management, economics, tourism, or culture using integrated and interdisciplinary research approaches. During the last three decades, geodiversity and geoheritage research experienced a considerable growth that confirm both scientific and public relevance of these topics as the science branch is in a close connection with the UN Sustainable Development Goals
In this course, the basic definitions of geodiversity, geoheritage and geoconservation and their connections to various science subjects and everyday life are explored by experienced researchers and Early Career Scientists with a range of backgrounds. We will cover the following subjects:
1. Introduction: Geodiversity and geoheritage: A multidisciplinary approach to valuing, conserving and managing abiotic nature
2. Principles and conceptual aspects of geodiversity research
3. How to assess geodiversity and why is it important?
Break
4. Geosite conservation: principles and management objectives
5. Geoheritage evaluation and managing conservation to disseminate geoscientific knowledge
6. Geotourism promotion of geoheritage – good practices

Our aim is to introduce participants to the basic concepts of this relatively young science field. Participants in the course will not only receive comprehensive theoretical knowledge but will also be actively engaged in practical activities. They will have the opportunity to apply various methodologies for geosite and geodiversity assessment, enhancing both their understanding and hands-on experience in the field. Participants will also have the chance to explore geoheritage through virtual field trips. At the end of the course a Q+A will provide the audience with a chance to interact with the panel. The course is aimed particularly at early career scientists, but anyone with an interest in geoheritage will find it useful. Attendees are invited to share and discuss their ideas, initiatives and plans that involve geoscientific heritage identification, evaluation, management or conservation throughout the whole course.