Geodiversity assessment as a practical tool for risk identification, monitoring and management

Geodiversity assessment is increasingly recognised as a practical and effective tool supporting the identification, management and monitoring of areas of high natural value, particularly in the context of growing environmental pressures and threats to geoheritage. This presentation has a methodological focus and aims to introduce two geodiversity assessment methods as decision-support tools for identifying the most valuable parts of protected and conserved areas (PCAs), as well as for assessing the rate of change in geodiversity value within a selected study area.

The proposed methods are suitable for the assessment of geo(morpho)sites with a defined area characterised by geomorphometric and geomorphogenetic diversity. They are not intended for the evaluation of point-scale geoheritage features, such as rock outcrops, erratic boulders, caves or waterfalls. Both approaches belong to qualitative–quantitative geodiversity assessment methods and are based on spatial multi-criteria analysis (S-MCA). The first method is designed primarily to identify areas of exceptionally high geodiversity value. It integrates direct spatial data, including geological, geomorphological and soil maps, with indirect variables derived from a Digital Elevation Model (DEM), such as relief energy, the topographic wetness index, total solar radiation and other terrain-based parameters. This approach has proven particularly effective for spatial prioritisation and for supporting geoconservation planning and management. The case studies include established protected areas, such as geomorphosites (Illgraben and Derborence in Switzerland) and a national park (Karkonoski NP in Poland).

The second method relies exclusively on indirect data, specifically geomorphometric parameters calculated from high-resolution LiDAR-derived Digital Elevation Models. The availability of very detailed and up-to-date terrain models allows not only the assessment of present-day geodiversity patterns, but also the identification of temporal changes in geodiversity. This dynamic perspective provides valuable input for risk assessment by enabling the detection of areas undergoing rapid geomorphological change and therefore potentially exposed to increasing threats. The method is demonstrated using a designated nature reserve (Morasko Reserve in Poland) and, for comparison, a dynamically developing urban area under strong anthropogenic pressure.

The applicability of the proposed methods is primarily limited by the availability of spatial data with appropriate temporal and spatial resolution. Both approaches allow for the identification of areas with high geodiversity value and provide a solid basis for management decisions. For these areas, risk assessment can be conducted and strategies for the protection and sustainable management of geoheritage can be developed.