This draft was published on the "Koom Talkuu" platform.
The aim of the document is to implement the provisions of the law "On Specially Protected Natural Areas," as well as to legally regulate the creation, functioning, and liquidation of geoparks. The main focus is on the protection of geological, historical-cultural, and archaeological heritage, as stated in the explanatory note.
The project proposes to create a unified mechanism for the establishment of geoparks, which will eliminate existing gaps in legislation and clearly define the actions of state and local authorities during their creation and management.
A geopark in this context is viewed as a comprehensive territory management model that combines the protection of natural and geological objects with the development of science, education, tourism, and the economy in the regions.
Main Provisions of the Draft Resolution
The document outlines several important goals for the creation of geoparks, including:
- preservation of unique natural and geological territories;
- development of geotourism and educational initiatives;
- support for economic growth in the regions;
- creation of new jobs and development of local businesses;
- conducting scientific research and ecological monitoring.
The draft also describes the procedure for the establishment of geoparks. The initiative for creation can come from state authorities, local governments, scientific and public organizations. For this, it will be necessary to prepare a scientific justification, undergo an environmental assessment, and obtain approval from the competent authority.
Structure of the Geopark Territory
The territory of the geopark will be divided into:
- the main protected area;
- the tourist-recreational area;
- the adjacent development area, which may include settlements and other lands while preserving their legal status.
In the main protected area, any activities that may harm natural and geological objects will be prohibited. This includes the extraction of minerals, capital construction, and other types of activities that threaten the preservation of the territory.
Management and Development of Geoparks
The management of geoparks will be carried out by a legal entity that must develop management plans, tourism development programs, educational projects, and an ecological monitoring system.
Additionally, it is proposed to create a National Committee on Geoparks to coordinate their development and interaction with international organizations, including UNESCO.
According to the author of the project, the adoption of this resolution will create conditions for the development of geotourism, the preservation of natural heritage, and the enhancement of the investment attractiveness of the regions.
