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The document has been prepared to implement the provisions of the law "On Specially Protected Natural Areas." Its goal is the legal regulation of the creation, functioning, and liquidation of geoparks, as well as the protection of geological, historical, cultural, and archaeological heritage, as stated in the explanatory note.
The draft resolution proposes the introduction of a unified mechanism for the establishment of geoparks, which should eliminate current gaps in legislation and establish an algorithm of actions for state and local authorities in the process of their creation and functioning.
According to the draft, a geopark represents a comprehensive management model that ensures a combination of the protection of natural and geological objects with the development of science, education, tourism, and the economy of regions.
Main Provisions of the Draft Resolution
The document defines the goals of creating geoparks, among which are:
- preservation of unique geological and natural objects;
- development of geotourism and educational initiatives;
- support for economic growth in regions;
- creation of new jobs and development of local businesses;
- conducting scientific research and ecological monitoring.
The draft also clarifies the procedure for creating geoparks. The initiators can be state authorities, local governments, scientific and public organizations. To do this, it is necessary to prepare a scientific justification, conduct an environmental assessment, and obtain the consent of the authorized body.
Structure of the Geopark Territory
It is proposed to divide the territory of the geopark into the following zones:
- main protected zone;
- tourist-recreational zone;
- adjacent territory, which may include settlements and other lands without changing their legal status.
In the main protected zone, any activities that may 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 the territory.
Management and Development of Geoparks
The management of geoparks will be carried out by a legal entity, which will be required to develop management plans, tourism development programs, educational projects, and an ecological monitoring system.
Additionally, it is proposed to create a National Committee on Geoparks, which will coordinate their development and interact with international organizations, including UNESCO structures.
According to the author of the draft resolution, its adoption will create conditions for the development of geotourism, preservation of natural heritage, and enhancement of the investment attractiveness of regions.
