- Email: [email protected]
Geoconservation for science and society: challenges and opportunities
Proceedings of the Geologists’ Association 122 (2011) 337–342
Contents lists available at ScienceDirect
Proceedings of the Geologists’ Association journal homepage: www.elsevier.com/locate/pgeola
Viewpoint
Geoconservation for science and society: challenges and opportunities Colin D. Prosser a,*, David R. Bridgland b, Eleanor J. Brown c, Jonathan G. Larwood a a
Natural England, 3rd Floor, Touthill Close, City Road, Peterborough PE11XN, UK Department of Geography, Durham University, Science Site, South Road, Durham DH1 3LE, UK c Natural England, Block B Government Buildings, Whittington Road, Worcester WR5 2LQ, UK b
A R T I C L E I N F O
A B S T R A C T
Article history: Received 29 November 2010 Received in revised form 18 January 2011 Accepted 20 January 2011 Available online 17 February 2011
Well managed and accessible geological and geomorphological sites are important to both science and society, for research, education, and, in some cases, for recreation. In this viewpoint paper we celebrate achievements in the field of geoconservation over the last 60 years since the first geological Sites of Special Scientific Interest were designated in the UK following the passing of the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act in 1949. With a range of new political, social, economic and environmental challenges and opportunities coming to the fore, geoconservation now needs to innovate and adapt in order to sustain and enhance its influence and effectiveness. In advance of the 2011 Geologists’ Association Annual Meeting, Geoconservation for Science and Society: An Agenda for the 21st Century, we give our view on the challenges and opportunities facing geoconservation and the areas in which new approaches and partnerships are required to secure the long-term conservation of our geological and geomorphological heritage. ß 2011 The Geologists’ Association. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Keywords: Geoconservation Geodiversity Future agenda Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs)
1. Introduction Geodiversity, the natural range of geological, geomorphological and soil features (see Gray, 2004), is an integral part of the natural environment, on which both science and society depend. Access to geological and geomorphological sites to record, study, and interpret their features is essential to both scientific study and the training of the Earth scientists needed to find and supply the natural resources, including building materials and water, on which society depends. Of increasing importance is the understanding of past climate change, and the responses of natural systems to it, that can be determined from the study of geological sites; long-term perspectives provide a context for managing change and enable us to plan suitable adaptation strategies. The nature and distribution of our landscapes, biodiversity, land use and local character are defined by underlying geology, landforms, and geomorphological processes, and this rich geodiversity provides the spectacular backdrop to many popular tourism destinations and underpins the ecosystems on which we all depend. Given their importance to science and society, geological and geomorphological features and processes are critical parts of our natural environment and are worthy of conservation and sustainable management. Although still a long way from achieving the conservation profile and participation levels enjoyed by wildlife conservation,
* Corresponding author. Tel.: +44 0 300 060 1276. E-mail address: [email protected] (C.D. Prosser).
the importance of geoconservation, defined here as ‘the action taken with the intent of conserving geological features, processes, sites and specimens’ (Burek and Prosser, 2008), is increasingly being recognised and acted upon. For example, in the UK, along with many countries throughout the World, statutory and/or voluntary geoconservation has been put in place and many sites at international, national or local level now benefit from conservation, management and interpretation (Fig. 1). In the UK, the network of nationally and internationally important Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs), the establishment and growth of local site designations, the inscription of two World Heritage Sites and eight European Geoparks and the increase in the number of geoconservation groups have combined to put geoconservation on a strong footing. Most recently, geoconservation initiatives in the UK have arisen in the sub-marine environment, for example through implementation of the Marine and Coastal Access Act (2009), and in relation to soil conservation, through innovations such as the Scottish Soil Framework (2009). All of this would not have been possible without the contribution and dedication of geoconservation practitioners, geoscience academics, amateurs and volunteers. Despite this undoubted progress, our geological heritage is still vulnerable to damage and loss and its conservation remains a relatively low priority amongst most decision makers and members of the public. The long-standing pressures of a growing population and of economic development remain, but alongside them new challenges and opportunities have emerged. These arise, for example, from climate change and the human response to it, from the need to measure and articulate the social and economic
0016-7878/$ – see front matter ß 2011 The Geologists’ Association. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved. doi:10.1016/j.pgeola.2011.01.007
[()TD$FIG]
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C.D. Prosser et al. / Proceedings of the Geologists’ Association 122 (2011) 337–342
importance of the services to society provided by the natural environment, prompt us to take stock and set a new and responsive agenda for geoconservation in the 21st Century. In doing this, we must identify, understand and act upon the challenges and opportunities facing both society and our geological heritage, whilst sustaining and building upon the 20th Century foundations for geoconservation. In terms of sustaining the fundamentals of geoconservation, we shall need up-to-date audits of the geological and geomorphological resource, robust legislation and policy guidance to help protect it, and more effective implementation on the ground. We need to expand our geoconservation thinking from a site-based to a more integrated landscape-scale approach, developing new conservation techniques and working with both existing and new disciplines and partners in doing so. We also need to understand and respond to new political, social, economic and environmental drivers such as: the effect of climate change and society’s response to it, on geological and geomorphological sites, including any engineering associated with controlling its impact; the increasing need to articulate and deliver, through geoconservation, wider social and economic benefits and services for society; the current need, in the UK, to engage with the government-led promotion of ‘localism’ and to increase delivery of geoconservation through voluntary groups and local communities; the need to innovate and deliver geoconservation with reduced resources.
Fig. 1. Hornchurch Cutting SSSI, Greater London, England, taken in May 2010 and exposing the southernmost limits of the Anglian glaciations and the oldest terrace of the Lower Thames. Site management work here was brought about through partnership between Network Rail, Natural England and the academic community. The section was featured recently on the Channel Four TV programme ‘Birth of Britain’. Photograph/Emily Dresner, Natural England.
benefit generated from conserving the natural environment and from an increased expectation that more conservation will be delivered locally and, in the current age of economic austerity, by volunteers. All of this means that geoconservation must now adapt, innovate and reach out to society in order to advance and thrive in the 21st Century. The Geologists’ Association Annual Meeting in 2011, sponsored by Elsevier will provide a timely opportunity to discuss how to achieve this. In this paper we present our view1 and pose questions on the emerging challenges and opportunities to help frame the themes of the meeting. 2. Geoconservation achievements to date Since the instigation of a structured approach to geoconservation in the UK more than 60 years ago (see Thomas and Cleal, 2005; Prosser, 2008), substantial progress has been made. This is summarised in Table 1. 3. The challenges and opportunities ahead Although a great deal has been achieved since the first SSSIs were notified 60 years ago, recent political, social, economic and environmental changes and an increased recognition of the
Importantly, in order to continue to conserve, manage and make full use of our geological and geomorphological heritage, we must increase awareness amongst decision makers and the public of the importance and value of geodiversity and geoconservation. We must also ensure that we continue to work in partnership, both as a coherent geoconservation community and in reaching out to develop new partnerships with those with an interest in, or influence over, the natural environment. Only through partnership work can we address the challenges ahead and take the opportunities they present. Our thoughts on the challenges and opportunities faced by geoconservation in the years ahead are outlined below. 3.1. Audit to underpin conservation Our view is that sites provide the foundation for geoconservation. Site audit and conservation at international, national and local levels provides a basis for protecting and valuing localities that are central to research and learning. Whilst geoconservation in areas outside designated sites and delivered through an integrated, interdisciplinary approach is likely to be increasingly important in the years ahead, this will still need to be underpinned by sound geoconservation audits. National audits such as the Geological Conservation Review (GCR) (Ellis et al., 1996) must remain robust and dynamic, accommodating new science and new sites as they emerge. The continued growth of the Global and European Geopark networks provides an international stage for promoting geodiversity, whilst locally, the identification, management and promotion of sites that are valued for their geodiversity forges strong and important links to different communities, strengthening and widening the value that is placed upon this resource. Viewpoint questions:
1
The views expressed in this paper are our own, not necessarily those of Durham University or Natural England, and have been reached through many years of involvement in geoconservation in the UK.
How do we maintain and resource the expansion of site audits to underpin geoconservation?
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Table 1 Geoconservation achievements over the last 60 years. Activity
Examples from the UK
Approximate scale/significance of achievement
Geoconservation audits
Geological Conservation Review Northern Ireland Earth Science Conservation Review Local sites, e.g. Welsh RIGS LGAP audits, e.g. Northumberland National Park
Over 3000 GCR sites Approximately 330 ESCR sites
Nationally protected sites
Geological/geomorphological Sites of Special Scientific Interest in England, Scotland and Wales and Areas of Special Scientific Interest in Northern Ireland National Nature Reserves (NNRs)
Approximately 2100 SSSIs and 110 ASSIs
11 NNRs across England, Scotland and Wales
Locally protected sites
Local Geological Sites (often referred to as RIGS)
Over 3500 sites across England, Scotland and Wales
Internationally recognised sites
World Heritage Sites (WHS)
2 geological WHS, Dorset and East Devon Coast and The Giant’s Causeway are in the UK There are 77 Global Geoparks of which 37 are European Geoparks, 8 of which are in the UK.
European Geoparks
Legislation relating to geoconservation
Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981)
Provision of a strong legal basis for geoconservation in the UK
Countryside and Rights of Way Act (2000) Nature Conservation (Scotland) Act (2004) Marine and Coastal Access Act (2009) Geoconservation policy and plans
UK Geodiversity Action Plan
Provision of a framework, guidance and good practice to support the delivery of geoconservation
Local Geodiversity Action Plans Planning Policy Statement 9: Biodiversity and geological conservation (2005) Scottish Fossil Code (2008) Scottish Soil Framework (2009) Conservation groups/societies active in geoconservation
Country conservation agencies
Provision of the means of delivering statutory and voluntary geoconservation on international, national and locally important sites
GeoConservationUK The Geology Trusts The Geologists’ Association Geoconservation Commission of the Geological Society of London European Geopark Network & WHS ProGEO Geoconservation publications
Earth Heritage
Along with the international ProGEO News and the journal Geoheritage, this has been the primary source for dissemination of research and good practice relating to geoconservation
Funding sources
The Aggregates Levy Sustainability Fund
These have provided funding for geoconservation in recent years
Country conservation agencies Central Government, e.g. Welsh Assembly Heritage Lottery Fund Geologists’ Association Curry Fund Some local planning authorities European funding e.g. INTERREG
How, and to what extent, should we work beyond sites to deliver geoconservation in the wider landscape to the benefit of science and society? 3.2. Global-to-local: making legislation and policy work for geoconservation The challenge to integrate geoconservation policy and practice at all levels of government and into wider frameworks that support the conservation and management of the natural environment remains. This is the case for both Conventions and Directives at an international level and policies, guidance and delivery at national and local levels. Climate and environmental change, pressure on the supply of natural resources, development pressures and economic change are issues with global-to-local impact on society and the natural
environment. Whilst the impact of these has placed biodiversity and its conservation firmly on the global agenda, considerably less attention is given to geodiversity and geoconservation, although very similar threats and challenges apply. These include the need to integrate our way of thinking, to link across disciplines and expertise and to work with local communities to raise awareness of geodiversity and the role it plays in our environment. At a global scale, the UNESCO World Heritage Convention recognises the importance of geodiversity, with at least 72 World Heritage Sites inscribed on the basis of their geodiversity (Boylan, 2008). These include the Giant’s Causeway and the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Sites in the UK. The Global and European Geopark network now includes 77 Geoparks promoting geodiversity, its importance for society and the need to conserve it. This international recognition is vital in giving geodiversity the status it deserves, recognition that could be further enhanced if
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3.3. New agendas – new drivers
international drivers such as European geoconservation legislation or policy were to be put into place. Whilst there are no geodiversity-specific European Conventions and Directives, geodiversity remains important to the success of those that exist for other aspects of conservation. Delivery of the Water Framework Directive and the European Habitats and Species Directive relies to a great extent on the function of natural processes, such as evolving river and coastal systems, which are a critical part of geodiversity. The European Landscape Convention defines landscape as ‘an area, as perceived by people, whose character is the result of the action and interaction of natural and/or human factors’). This definition in recognising, in its widest sense, the value of geodiversity in shaping our landscapes, provides the opportunity to demonstrate the role of geodiversity in defining and understanding landscapes and thus adds to the importance of conserving geodiversity. Explicit inclusion of geology and geomorphology in early national nature conservation legislation and thinking in Great Britain (Prosser, 2008) was groundbreaking, and has provided a very effective driver for geoconservation. Over the years, however, the resources available for geoconservation have been relatively low with inevitable consequences for the ability to deliver on the ground. Archaeology, on the other hand, has benefitted from an entirely different approach to conservation. Here, strong policy guidance, for example Planning Policy Statement 5: Planning for the Historic Environment (2010), co-ordinated by Government agencies such as English Heritage, requires, in many circumstances, that developers fund archaeological investigation and conservation on the ground.
Climate change, and in particular society’s response to it (Fig. 2), presents both opportunities and challenges for geoconservation. Understanding and dealing with the consequences of climate change, such as sea-level rise or the impacts of increased erosion and flooding, will necessitate an integrated approach to adaptive environmental management and conservation. The policy and practice of conservation is now working beyond the traditional site- and area-based approaches as emphasis is being placed on conserving ecosystems and the goods and services that ecosystems provide for society (see Millennium Ecosystem Assessment, 2005). Geodiversity provides both renewable and non-renewable resources for society, and both delivers and underpins ecosystem services (Gray, in press). Localism and the role of local communities in delivering conservation are currently high on the political agenda in the UK. Co-operation between organisations involved in conservation, the academic community, amateur geologists and volunteers is already at the heart of successful geoconservation (Fig. 3); the role of organisations such as the Geologists’ Association and the voluntary geoconservation movement are set to become even more critical in linking geologists to local communities and in delivering geoconservation. Viewpoint questions:
Viewpoint questions:
How do we address the issues for geoconservation presented by climate change and ensure that geoscience informs climate change adaptation strategies? How can we ensure that the ecosystem approach delivers for geoconservation and that geoconservation in turn enhances the delivery of ecosystem services? How do we enhance our existing partnerships to embrace localism and deliver effective geoconservation, especially in times of economic austerity?
How can we seek to increase the political weight given to geoconservation both nationally and internationally? How can we ensure that European and national legislation and policies are drafted and interpreted to include geodiversity and translated effectively into local implementation? How can we interpret international conventions for the natural and cultural environment to ensure that they also deliver for geodiversity? How can we better integrate policies for the conservation of geodiversity with those relating to landscape, biodiversity and [()TD$FIG] the historic environment?
Fig. 2. Gerrans Bay to Camels Cove SSSI, Cornwall, England. Taken in 2004, this picture shows coastal protection obscuring Pleistocene raised beach and head deposits resting on the Middle Devonian Pendower Formation. The demand for coastal protection is likely to increase with climate change and associated sea-level rise. Photograph/Natural England.
3.4. New geoconservation techniques – new ways of working
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Existing practical experience in managing geological sites (e.g. Prosser et al., 2006) should be shared and built upon. In the 21st
Fig. 3. Geoconservation through the local community. Swaddywell Pit Nature Reserve in June 2010, a Local Geological Site near Helpston, Peterborough, England, exposing the Middle Jurassic Lincolnshire Limestone Formation. The site is owned and managed by the Langdyke Countryside Trust, a community organisation dedicated to the conservation of the natural and built heritage around Peterborough and Stamford. Photograph/Colin Prosser.
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We need to use our knowledge effectively and work with the academic community and funding bodies to ensure that geoscience evidence contributes to the development of thinking on topics such as ecosystem services and thus to decision making relating to the natural environment. Our knowledge and understanding of environmental change and its impact, drawn from the study of geodiversity, will help us to make better and more informed decisions about the future of our environment. If we use this knowledge intelligently then the value placed on geodiversity and the importance of geoconservation will grow. Viewpoint questions:
Fig. 4. Understanding the links between geodiversity and biodiversity is fundamental to integrated conservation management in the uplands. Upland habitats are generally of high value for nature conservation but are dynamic and often fragile, as here in the Cairngorms. This dynamism and fragility result, in part, from the properties of the soils and vegetation, active geomorphological processes and the extreme climate. Photograph/John Gordon, Scottish Natural Heritage.
Century there are new management challenges for geoconservation that require us to develop our conservation techniques and establish new ways of working. For example, if we are to adapt geoconservation to a changing climate, we must engage constructively with society and government (Prosser et al., 2010), and develop management solutions that integrate geodiversity and biodiversity in order to deliver effective adaptation for the whole natural environment (Gordon et al., 2008). We believe that this integrated, interdisciplinary approach should be at the heart of the future development of geoconservation. Collaboration between archaeologists and geologists has proved fruitful, by widening our knowledge of Quaternary geology and associated archaeology (Bridgland and Golledge, 2010). Equally, there are many common goals with biodiversity conservation; for example maintaining natural processes is considered to be beneficial for both geodiversity and biodiversity (e.g. Hopkins et al., 2007; Gordon et al., 2008) (Fig. 4). We need to establish mutual conservation objectives and seek ways of sharing our expertise, experience and resources. Viewpoint questions: How do we facilitate closer working with other conservation practitioners and set mutually beneficial conservation objectives? How can we share good practice and develop innovative approaches to new conservation challenges? 3.5. Raising awareness Making geodiversity relevant to people, where they live and how they live, is essential to successful geoconservation. If people are more aware of geodiversity, they are more likely to understand and value it, and therefore support the need for its conservation and appreciate the benefits it can delivery for society (Tilden, 1977; Anderson and Brown, 2010). The challenge of raising awareness is shared across the geological community. Through outreach, interpretation and partnership we need to involve people in geodiversity, engage government and policy makers and work with those involved in managing the natural and built environment (Durham and Larwood, 2005; Anderson and Brown, 2010).
How can we engage with society in the 21st Century in a way that makes geodiversity and geoconservation more relevant? How can we influence the supply of and demand for geoscience evidence to help deliver benefits for conservation and society? 4. Conclusion The September 2011 Geologists’ Association Annual Meeting will celebrate the considerable achievements in geoconservation to date and discuss how we need to evolve our approach to deliver for 21st Century science and society. In so doing, it will explore the scientific, political, practical, social and environmental challenges and opportunities ahead. We believe that setting and implementing a new and innovative agenda for geoconservation is essential if we are to conserve our geodiversity in the long term and maintain the sites and natural systems needed to underpin geoscience and education. To do this we will need a strong partnership within the geosciences community and with others from related fields and new and effective ways of articulating the many benefits that geodiversity provides to science and society. Acknowledgements We thank Jim Rose for encouraging us to write this paper and the two anonymous referees whose comments and suggestions have improved our original manuscript. John Gordon (Scottish Natural Heritage) commented on the manuscript and kindly provided the image used in Fig. 4. References Anderson, D.E., Brown, E.J., 2010. Perspectives on Quaternary outreach and aspirations for the future. Proceedings of the Geologists’ Association 121 (4), 455–467. Bridgland, D.R., Golledge, N.R., 2010. The Quaternary geology of the British Isles. Proceedings of the Geologists’ Association 121 (4), 364–368. Burek, C.V., Prosser, C.D., 2008. A history of geoconservation: an introduction. In: Burek, C.V., Prosser, C.D. (Eds.), The History of Geoconservation. The Geological Society, vol. 300. Special Publications, London, pp. 1–5. Boylan, P.J., 2008. Geological site designation under the 1972 UNESCO World Heritage Convention. In: Burek, C.V., Prosser, CD. (Eds.), The History of Geoconservation. The Geological Society, vol. 300. Special Publications, London, pp. 279–304. Durham, E., Larwood, J., 2005. Involving people in geodiversity. Joint Nature Conservation Committee, 16 pp. Ellis, N.V., Bowen, D.Q., Campbell, S., Knill, J.L., McKirdy, A.P., Prosser, C.D., Vincent, M.A., Wilson, R.C.L., 1996. An Introduction to the Geological Conservation Review. GCR Series No. 1, Joint Nature Conservation Committee, Peterborough, 131 pp. Gordon, J., Kirkbride, V., Rennie, A., Bruneau, P., 2008. Climate change: why geodiversity matters. Earth Heritage 30, 8–10. Gray, M., 2004. Geodiversity: Valuing and Conserving Abiotic Nature. John Wiley, Chichester. Gray, M. Other nature: geodiversity and geosystem services. Environmental Conservation, 38 (3), in press. Hopkins, J.J., Allison, H.M., Walmsley, C.A., Gaywood, M., Thurgate, G., 2007. Conserving Biodiversity in a Changing Climate: Guidance on Building Capacity to Adapt. Defra, London, 26.
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Millennium Ecosystem Assessment, 2005. Ecosystems and Human Well-being: Synthesis. Island Press, Washington, DC, 155 pp. Prosser, C.D., 2008. The history of geoconservation in England: legislative and policy milestones. In: Burek, C.V., Prosser, C.D. (Eds.), The History of Geoconservation. The Geological Society, vol. 300. Special Publications, London, pp. 113–122. Prosser, C., Murphy, M., Larwood, J., 2006. Geological conservation: a guide to good practice. English Nature 144.
Prosser, C.D., Burek, C.V., Evans, D.H., Gordon, J.E., Kirkbride, V.B., Rennie, A.F., Walmsley, C.A., 2010. Conserving geodiversity sites in a changing climate: management challenges and responses. Geoheritage 2, 123–136. Thomas, B.A., Cleal, C.J., 2005. Geological conservation in the United Kingdom. Law, Science and Policy 2, 269–284. Tilden, F., 1977. Interpreting Our Heritage, 3rd edition. University of North Carolina Press, Chapel Hill.
Contents lists available at ScienceDirect
Proceedings of the Geologists’ Association journal homepage: www.elsevier.com/locate/pgeola
Viewpoint
Geoconservation for science and society: challenges and opportunities Colin D. Prosser a,*, David R. Bridgland b, Eleanor J. Brown c, Jonathan G. Larwood a a
Natural England, 3rd Floor, Touthill Close, City Road, Peterborough PE11XN, UK Department of Geography, Durham University, Science Site, South Road, Durham DH1 3LE, UK c Natural England, Block B Government Buildings, Whittington Road, Worcester WR5 2LQ, UK b
A R T I C L E I N F O
A B S T R A C T
Article history: Received 29 November 2010 Received in revised form 18 January 2011 Accepted 20 January 2011 Available online 17 February 2011
Well managed and accessible geological and geomorphological sites are important to both science and society, for research, education, and, in some cases, for recreation. In this viewpoint paper we celebrate achievements in the field of geoconservation over the last 60 years since the first geological Sites of Special Scientific Interest were designated in the UK following the passing of the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act in 1949. With a range of new political, social, economic and environmental challenges and opportunities coming to the fore, geoconservation now needs to innovate and adapt in order to sustain and enhance its influence and effectiveness. In advance of the 2011 Geologists’ Association Annual Meeting, Geoconservation for Science and Society: An Agenda for the 21st Century, we give our view on the challenges and opportunities facing geoconservation and the areas in which new approaches and partnerships are required to secure the long-term conservation of our geological and geomorphological heritage. ß 2011 The Geologists’ Association. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Keywords: Geoconservation Geodiversity Future agenda Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs)
1. Introduction Geodiversity, the natural range of geological, geomorphological and soil features (see Gray, 2004), is an integral part of the natural environment, on which both science and society depend. Access to geological and geomorphological sites to record, study, and interpret their features is essential to both scientific study and the training of the Earth scientists needed to find and supply the natural resources, including building materials and water, on which society depends. Of increasing importance is the understanding of past climate change, and the responses of natural systems to it, that can be determined from the study of geological sites; long-term perspectives provide a context for managing change and enable us to plan suitable adaptation strategies. The nature and distribution of our landscapes, biodiversity, land use and local character are defined by underlying geology, landforms, and geomorphological processes, and this rich geodiversity provides the spectacular backdrop to many popular tourism destinations and underpins the ecosystems on which we all depend. Given their importance to science and society, geological and geomorphological features and processes are critical parts of our natural environment and are worthy of conservation and sustainable management. Although still a long way from achieving the conservation profile and participation levels enjoyed by wildlife conservation,
* Corresponding author. Tel.: +44 0 300 060 1276. E-mail address: [email protected] (C.D. Prosser).
the importance of geoconservation, defined here as ‘the action taken with the intent of conserving geological features, processes, sites and specimens’ (Burek and Prosser, 2008), is increasingly being recognised and acted upon. For example, in the UK, along with many countries throughout the World, statutory and/or voluntary geoconservation has been put in place and many sites at international, national or local level now benefit from conservation, management and interpretation (Fig. 1). In the UK, the network of nationally and internationally important Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs), the establishment and growth of local site designations, the inscription of two World Heritage Sites and eight European Geoparks and the increase in the number of geoconservation groups have combined to put geoconservation on a strong footing. Most recently, geoconservation initiatives in the UK have arisen in the sub-marine environment, for example through implementation of the Marine and Coastal Access Act (2009), and in relation to soil conservation, through innovations such as the Scottish Soil Framework (2009). All of this would not have been possible without the contribution and dedication of geoconservation practitioners, geoscience academics, amateurs and volunteers. Despite this undoubted progress, our geological heritage is still vulnerable to damage and loss and its conservation remains a relatively low priority amongst most decision makers and members of the public. The long-standing pressures of a growing population and of economic development remain, but alongside them new challenges and opportunities have emerged. These arise, for example, from climate change and the human response to it, from the need to measure and articulate the social and economic
0016-7878/$ – see front matter ß 2011 The Geologists’ Association. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved. doi:10.1016/j.pgeola.2011.01.007
[()TD$FIG]
338
C.D. Prosser et al. / Proceedings of the Geologists’ Association 122 (2011) 337–342
importance of the services to society provided by the natural environment, prompt us to take stock and set a new and responsive agenda for geoconservation in the 21st Century. In doing this, we must identify, understand and act upon the challenges and opportunities facing both society and our geological heritage, whilst sustaining and building upon the 20th Century foundations for geoconservation. In terms of sustaining the fundamentals of geoconservation, we shall need up-to-date audits of the geological and geomorphological resource, robust legislation and policy guidance to help protect it, and more effective implementation on the ground. We need to expand our geoconservation thinking from a site-based to a more integrated landscape-scale approach, developing new conservation techniques and working with both existing and new disciplines and partners in doing so. We also need to understand and respond to new political, social, economic and environmental drivers such as: the effect of climate change and society’s response to it, on geological and geomorphological sites, including any engineering associated with controlling its impact; the increasing need to articulate and deliver, through geoconservation, wider social and economic benefits and services for society; the current need, in the UK, to engage with the government-led promotion of ‘localism’ and to increase delivery of geoconservation through voluntary groups and local communities; the need to innovate and deliver geoconservation with reduced resources.
Fig. 1. Hornchurch Cutting SSSI, Greater London, England, taken in May 2010 and exposing the southernmost limits of the Anglian glaciations and the oldest terrace of the Lower Thames. Site management work here was brought about through partnership between Network Rail, Natural England and the academic community. The section was featured recently on the Channel Four TV programme ‘Birth of Britain’. Photograph/Emily Dresner, Natural England.
benefit generated from conserving the natural environment and from an increased expectation that more conservation will be delivered locally and, in the current age of economic austerity, by volunteers. All of this means that geoconservation must now adapt, innovate and reach out to society in order to advance and thrive in the 21st Century. The Geologists’ Association Annual Meeting in 2011, sponsored by Elsevier will provide a timely opportunity to discuss how to achieve this. In this paper we present our view1 and pose questions on the emerging challenges and opportunities to help frame the themes of the meeting. 2. Geoconservation achievements to date Since the instigation of a structured approach to geoconservation in the UK more than 60 years ago (see Thomas and Cleal, 2005; Prosser, 2008), substantial progress has been made. This is summarised in Table 1. 3. The challenges and opportunities ahead Although a great deal has been achieved since the first SSSIs were notified 60 years ago, recent political, social, economic and environmental changes and an increased recognition of the
Importantly, in order to continue to conserve, manage and make full use of our geological and geomorphological heritage, we must increase awareness amongst decision makers and the public of the importance and value of geodiversity and geoconservation. We must also ensure that we continue to work in partnership, both as a coherent geoconservation community and in reaching out to develop new partnerships with those with an interest in, or influence over, the natural environment. Only through partnership work can we address the challenges ahead and take the opportunities they present. Our thoughts on the challenges and opportunities faced by geoconservation in the years ahead are outlined below. 3.1. Audit to underpin conservation Our view is that sites provide the foundation for geoconservation. Site audit and conservation at international, national and local levels provides a basis for protecting and valuing localities that are central to research and learning. Whilst geoconservation in areas outside designated sites and delivered through an integrated, interdisciplinary approach is likely to be increasingly important in the years ahead, this will still need to be underpinned by sound geoconservation audits. National audits such as the Geological Conservation Review (GCR) (Ellis et al., 1996) must remain robust and dynamic, accommodating new science and new sites as they emerge. The continued growth of the Global and European Geopark networks provides an international stage for promoting geodiversity, whilst locally, the identification, management and promotion of sites that are valued for their geodiversity forges strong and important links to different communities, strengthening and widening the value that is placed upon this resource. Viewpoint questions:
1
The views expressed in this paper are our own, not necessarily those of Durham University or Natural England, and have been reached through many years of involvement in geoconservation in the UK.
How do we maintain and resource the expansion of site audits to underpin geoconservation?
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Table 1 Geoconservation achievements over the last 60 years. Activity
Examples from the UK
Approximate scale/significance of achievement
Geoconservation audits
Geological Conservation Review Northern Ireland Earth Science Conservation Review Local sites, e.g. Welsh RIGS LGAP audits, e.g. Northumberland National Park
Over 3000 GCR sites Approximately 330 ESCR sites
Nationally protected sites
Geological/geomorphological Sites of Special Scientific Interest in England, Scotland and Wales and Areas of Special Scientific Interest in Northern Ireland National Nature Reserves (NNRs)
Approximately 2100 SSSIs and 110 ASSIs
11 NNRs across England, Scotland and Wales
Locally protected sites
Local Geological Sites (often referred to as RIGS)
Over 3500 sites across England, Scotland and Wales
Internationally recognised sites
World Heritage Sites (WHS)
2 geological WHS, Dorset and East Devon Coast and The Giant’s Causeway are in the UK There are 77 Global Geoparks of which 37 are European Geoparks, 8 of which are in the UK.
European Geoparks
Legislation relating to geoconservation
Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981)
Provision of a strong legal basis for geoconservation in the UK
Countryside and Rights of Way Act (2000) Nature Conservation (Scotland) Act (2004) Marine and Coastal Access Act (2009) Geoconservation policy and plans
UK Geodiversity Action Plan
Provision of a framework, guidance and good practice to support the delivery of geoconservation
Local Geodiversity Action Plans Planning Policy Statement 9: Biodiversity and geological conservation (2005) Scottish Fossil Code (2008) Scottish Soil Framework (2009) Conservation groups/societies active in geoconservation
Country conservation agencies
Provision of the means of delivering statutory and voluntary geoconservation on international, national and locally important sites
GeoConservationUK The Geology Trusts The Geologists’ Association Geoconservation Commission of the Geological Society of London European Geopark Network & WHS ProGEO Geoconservation publications
Earth Heritage
Along with the international ProGEO News and the journal Geoheritage, this has been the primary source for dissemination of research and good practice relating to geoconservation
Funding sources
The Aggregates Levy Sustainability Fund
These have provided funding for geoconservation in recent years
Country conservation agencies Central Government, e.g. Welsh Assembly Heritage Lottery Fund Geologists’ Association Curry Fund Some local planning authorities European funding e.g. INTERREG
How, and to what extent, should we work beyond sites to deliver geoconservation in the wider landscape to the benefit of science and society? 3.2. Global-to-local: making legislation and policy work for geoconservation The challenge to integrate geoconservation policy and practice at all levels of government and into wider frameworks that support the conservation and management of the natural environment remains. This is the case for both Conventions and Directives at an international level and policies, guidance and delivery at national and local levels. Climate and environmental change, pressure on the supply of natural resources, development pressures and economic change are issues with global-to-local impact on society and the natural
environment. Whilst the impact of these has placed biodiversity and its conservation firmly on the global agenda, considerably less attention is given to geodiversity and geoconservation, although very similar threats and challenges apply. These include the need to integrate our way of thinking, to link across disciplines and expertise and to work with local communities to raise awareness of geodiversity and the role it plays in our environment. At a global scale, the UNESCO World Heritage Convention recognises the importance of geodiversity, with at least 72 World Heritage Sites inscribed on the basis of their geodiversity (Boylan, 2008). These include the Giant’s Causeway and the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Sites in the UK. The Global and European Geopark network now includes 77 Geoparks promoting geodiversity, its importance for society and the need to conserve it. This international recognition is vital in giving geodiversity the status it deserves, recognition that could be further enhanced if
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3.3. New agendas – new drivers
international drivers such as European geoconservation legislation or policy were to be put into place. Whilst there are no geodiversity-specific European Conventions and Directives, geodiversity remains important to the success of those that exist for other aspects of conservation. Delivery of the Water Framework Directive and the European Habitats and Species Directive relies to a great extent on the function of natural processes, such as evolving river and coastal systems, which are a critical part of geodiversity. The European Landscape Convention defines landscape as ‘an area, as perceived by people, whose character is the result of the action and interaction of natural and/or human factors’). This definition in recognising, in its widest sense, the value of geodiversity in shaping our landscapes, provides the opportunity to demonstrate the role of geodiversity in defining and understanding landscapes and thus adds to the importance of conserving geodiversity. Explicit inclusion of geology and geomorphology in early national nature conservation legislation and thinking in Great Britain (Prosser, 2008) was groundbreaking, and has provided a very effective driver for geoconservation. Over the years, however, the resources available for geoconservation have been relatively low with inevitable consequences for the ability to deliver on the ground. Archaeology, on the other hand, has benefitted from an entirely different approach to conservation. Here, strong policy guidance, for example Planning Policy Statement 5: Planning for the Historic Environment (2010), co-ordinated by Government agencies such as English Heritage, requires, in many circumstances, that developers fund archaeological investigation and conservation on the ground.
Climate change, and in particular society’s response to it (Fig. 2), presents both opportunities and challenges for geoconservation. Understanding and dealing with the consequences of climate change, such as sea-level rise or the impacts of increased erosion and flooding, will necessitate an integrated approach to adaptive environmental management and conservation. The policy and practice of conservation is now working beyond the traditional site- and area-based approaches as emphasis is being placed on conserving ecosystems and the goods and services that ecosystems provide for society (see Millennium Ecosystem Assessment, 2005). Geodiversity provides both renewable and non-renewable resources for society, and both delivers and underpins ecosystem services (Gray, in press). Localism and the role of local communities in delivering conservation are currently high on the political agenda in the UK. Co-operation between organisations involved in conservation, the academic community, amateur geologists and volunteers is already at the heart of successful geoconservation (Fig. 3); the role of organisations such as the Geologists’ Association and the voluntary geoconservation movement are set to become even more critical in linking geologists to local communities and in delivering geoconservation. Viewpoint questions:
Viewpoint questions:
How do we address the issues for geoconservation presented by climate change and ensure that geoscience informs climate change adaptation strategies? How can we ensure that the ecosystem approach delivers for geoconservation and that geoconservation in turn enhances the delivery of ecosystem services? How do we enhance our existing partnerships to embrace localism and deliver effective geoconservation, especially in times of economic austerity?
How can we seek to increase the political weight given to geoconservation both nationally and internationally? How can we ensure that European and national legislation and policies are drafted and interpreted to include geodiversity and translated effectively into local implementation? How can we interpret international conventions for the natural and cultural environment to ensure that they also deliver for geodiversity? How can we better integrate policies for the conservation of geodiversity with those relating to landscape, biodiversity and [()TD$FIG] the historic environment?
Fig. 2. Gerrans Bay to Camels Cove SSSI, Cornwall, England. Taken in 2004, this picture shows coastal protection obscuring Pleistocene raised beach and head deposits resting on the Middle Devonian Pendower Formation. The demand for coastal protection is likely to increase with climate change and associated sea-level rise. Photograph/Natural England.
3.4. New geoconservation techniques – new ways of working
[()TD$FIG]
Existing practical experience in managing geological sites (e.g. Prosser et al., 2006) should be shared and built upon. In the 21st
Fig. 3. Geoconservation through the local community. Swaddywell Pit Nature Reserve in June 2010, a Local Geological Site near Helpston, Peterborough, England, exposing the Middle Jurassic Lincolnshire Limestone Formation. The site is owned and managed by the Langdyke Countryside Trust, a community organisation dedicated to the conservation of the natural and built heritage around Peterborough and Stamford. Photograph/Colin Prosser.
[()TD$FIG]
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We need to use our knowledge effectively and work with the academic community and funding bodies to ensure that geoscience evidence contributes to the development of thinking on topics such as ecosystem services and thus to decision making relating to the natural environment. Our knowledge and understanding of environmental change and its impact, drawn from the study of geodiversity, will help us to make better and more informed decisions about the future of our environment. If we use this knowledge intelligently then the value placed on geodiversity and the importance of geoconservation will grow. Viewpoint questions:
Fig. 4. Understanding the links between geodiversity and biodiversity is fundamental to integrated conservation management in the uplands. Upland habitats are generally of high value for nature conservation but are dynamic and often fragile, as here in the Cairngorms. This dynamism and fragility result, in part, from the properties of the soils and vegetation, active geomorphological processes and the extreme climate. Photograph/John Gordon, Scottish Natural Heritage.
Century there are new management challenges for geoconservation that require us to develop our conservation techniques and establish new ways of working. For example, if we are to adapt geoconservation to a changing climate, we must engage constructively with society and government (Prosser et al., 2010), and develop management solutions that integrate geodiversity and biodiversity in order to deliver effective adaptation for the whole natural environment (Gordon et al., 2008). We believe that this integrated, interdisciplinary approach should be at the heart of the future development of geoconservation. Collaboration between archaeologists and geologists has proved fruitful, by widening our knowledge of Quaternary geology and associated archaeology (Bridgland and Golledge, 2010). Equally, there are many common goals with biodiversity conservation; for example maintaining natural processes is considered to be beneficial for both geodiversity and biodiversity (e.g. Hopkins et al., 2007; Gordon et al., 2008) (Fig. 4). We need to establish mutual conservation objectives and seek ways of sharing our expertise, experience and resources. Viewpoint questions: How do we facilitate closer working with other conservation practitioners and set mutually beneficial conservation objectives? How can we share good practice and develop innovative approaches to new conservation challenges? 3.5. Raising awareness Making geodiversity relevant to people, where they live and how they live, is essential to successful geoconservation. If people are more aware of geodiversity, they are more likely to understand and value it, and therefore support the need for its conservation and appreciate the benefits it can delivery for society (Tilden, 1977; Anderson and Brown, 2010). The challenge of raising awareness is shared across the geological community. Through outreach, interpretation and partnership we need to involve people in geodiversity, engage government and policy makers and work with those involved in managing the natural and built environment (Durham and Larwood, 2005; Anderson and Brown, 2010).
How can we engage with society in the 21st Century in a way that makes geodiversity and geoconservation more relevant? How can we influence the supply of and demand for geoscience evidence to help deliver benefits for conservation and society? 4. Conclusion The September 2011 Geologists’ Association Annual Meeting will celebrate the considerable achievements in geoconservation to date and discuss how we need to evolve our approach to deliver for 21st Century science and society. In so doing, it will explore the scientific, political, practical, social and environmental challenges and opportunities ahead. We believe that setting and implementing a new and innovative agenda for geoconservation is essential if we are to conserve our geodiversity in the long term and maintain the sites and natural systems needed to underpin geoscience and education. To do this we will need a strong partnership within the geosciences community and with others from related fields and new and effective ways of articulating the many benefits that geodiversity provides to science and society. Acknowledgements We thank Jim Rose for encouraging us to write this paper and the two anonymous referees whose comments and suggestions have improved our original manuscript. John Gordon (Scottish Natural Heritage) commented on the manuscript and kindly provided the image used in Fig. 4. References Anderson, D.E., Brown, E.J., 2010. Perspectives on Quaternary outreach and aspirations for the future. Proceedings of the Geologists’ Association 121 (4), 455–467. Bridgland, D.R., Golledge, N.R., 2010. The Quaternary geology of the British Isles. Proceedings of the Geologists’ Association 121 (4), 364–368. Burek, C.V., Prosser, C.D., 2008. A history of geoconservation: an introduction. In: Burek, C.V., Prosser, C.D. (Eds.), The History of Geoconservation. The Geological Society, vol. 300. Special Publications, London, pp. 1–5. Boylan, P.J., 2008. Geological site designation under the 1972 UNESCO World Heritage Convention. In: Burek, C.V., Prosser, CD. (Eds.), The History of Geoconservation. The Geological Society, vol. 300. Special Publications, London, pp. 279–304. Durham, E., Larwood, J., 2005. Involving people in geodiversity. Joint Nature Conservation Committee, 16 pp. Ellis, N.V., Bowen, D.Q., Campbell, S., Knill, J.L., McKirdy, A.P., Prosser, C.D., Vincent, M.A., Wilson, R.C.L., 1996. An Introduction to the Geological Conservation Review. GCR Series No. 1, Joint Nature Conservation Committee, Peterborough, 131 pp. Gordon, J., Kirkbride, V., Rennie, A., Bruneau, P., 2008. Climate change: why geodiversity matters. Earth Heritage 30, 8–10. Gray, M., 2004. Geodiversity: Valuing and Conserving Abiotic Nature. John Wiley, Chichester. Gray, M. Other nature: geodiversity and geosystem services. Environmental Conservation, 38 (3), in press. Hopkins, J.J., Allison, H.M., Walmsley, C.A., Gaywood, M., Thurgate, G., 2007. Conserving Biodiversity in a Changing Climate: Guidance on Building Capacity to Adapt. Defra, London, 26.
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Millennium Ecosystem Assessment, 2005. Ecosystems and Human Well-being: Synthesis. Island Press, Washington, DC, 155 pp. Prosser, C.D., 2008. The history of geoconservation in England: legislative and policy milestones. In: Burek, C.V., Prosser, C.D. (Eds.), The History of Geoconservation. The Geological Society, vol. 300. Special Publications, London, pp. 113–122. Prosser, C., Murphy, M., Larwood, J., 2006. Geological conservation: a guide to good practice. English Nature 144.
Prosser, C.D., Burek, C.V., Evans, D.H., Gordon, J.E., Kirkbride, V.B., Rennie, A.F., Walmsley, C.A., 2010. Conserving geodiversity sites in a changing climate: management challenges and responses. Geoheritage 2, 123–136. Thomas, B.A., Cleal, C.J., 2005. Geological conservation in the United Kingdom. Law, Science and Policy 2, 269–284. Tilden, F., 1977. Interpreting Our Heritage, 3rd edition. University of North Carolina Press, Chapel Hill.