This draft is available for discussion on the "Koom Talkuu" platform.
The purpose of the document is to implement the provisions of the law "On Specially Protected Natural Areas," which implies the legal formalization of the processes for the creation, functioning, and liquidation of geoparks, as well as the protection of geological, historical, and cultural heritage, as stated in the justification.
The draft provides for the creation of a unified mechanism for the establishment of geoparks, which will eliminate existing gaps in legislation and establish a clear algorithm for the actions of state and local authorities in this process.
A geopark is defined as a comprehensive 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 defines the goals of creating geoparks, which include:
- protection of unique geological and natural territories;
- development of geotourism and educational initiatives;
- support for local economic growth;
- creation of new jobs and development of local businesses;
- conducting scientific research and monitoring the state of the ecology.
The draft also describes the process of creating geoparks. This can be initiated by both state authorities and local self-government bodies, as well as scientific and public organizations. For this, it is necessary to prepare a scientific justification, undergo an environmental examination, and obtain approval from the authorized body.
Structure of the Geopark
It is proposed to divide the territory of the geopark into several zones:
- the main protected zone;
- the tourist-recreational zone;
- the adjacent territory, which may include settlements and other lands without changing their legal status.
In the main zone, any activities that could harm natural and geological objects will be prohibited, including the extraction of minerals and capital construction, as well as other types of activities that threaten the preservation of this territory.
Management of Geoparks
The management of geoparks will be carried out by a legal entity that will be tasked with developing management plans, tourist programs, educational projects, and an ecological monitoring system.
In addition, the establishment of a National Committee for Geoparks is planned, which will be responsible for coordinating their development and collaborating with international organizations, including UNESCO structures.
According to the author of the project, the adoption of this resolution will create conditions for the development of geotourism, preservation of natural heritage, and enhancement of the investment attractiveness of the regions.
