Virtual Special Issue on Balancing the Protection and Utilization of Geoheritage and Parks

Introduction:

With growing global awareness of geoconservation, geoeducation, and geotourism, attention has increased on how geoheritage and parks can be effectively utilized for protection. However, challenges remain in balancing conservation and utilization, integrating scientific research with public participation, and managing geoheritage and parks under dynamic environmental and social contexts.

This special issue focuses on the protection and utilization of geoheritage and parks. By analyzing their current status and development, it aims to deepen understanding of the existing challenges, identify opportunities for improvement, and explore their broader implications for sustainable regional development. Such efforts are of both theoretical and practical significance for advancing geoconservation and promoting sustainable use.

This special issue particularly emphasizes: (i) the evolution, current status, and future trends of conservation and utilization of geoheritage and parks; (ii) the relationships, conflicts, and potential solutions between protection and utilization; and (iii) new concepts, methods, and technologies for the sustainable management and development of geoheritage and parks.

We welcome both research papers and review articles related to the above topics.

Submission instructions:

Please read the [Guide for Authors] before submitting. All articles should be [submitted online], please select [VSI: Balance Protect & Use] on submission.

 Important deadlines:

• Date First Submission Expected: 15 December 2025
• Final Manuscript Submission Deadline: 1 March 2027
• Editorial Acceptance Deadline: 30 June 2027

Guest editors:

• Qingxu Huang, Beijing Normal University, China, Email: qxhuang@bnu.edu.cn

• Ying Li, Yanbian University, China, Email:yli@ybu.edu.cn