Key Actors of Geoheritage Conservation in Tourism Destinations

The regulation of human activities aimed at conserving geoheritage relies on fostering effective communication among the key actors in the geoheritage domain. In this context, the current research aims to identify key actors in the field of geoheritage conservation and understand the nature of their communication. To achieve this goal, Iran has been selected as the research area. Data collection is conducted through structured questionnaire. The statistical population of the research includes the employees designated as active entities in the field of geoheritage conservation. The statistical sample size, determined using Cochran's method, is 384. In the distribution of questionnaires, a stratified random sampling method is employed, ensuring an equal representation from each stratum. Data analysis is performed using the network analysis method and the UCINET software. Three forms of communication including coordination, cooperation, collaboration among actors in the field of geoheritage conservation are set using network analysis indicators (Density index, Centralization index, Reciprocity Index, Transitivity index, Core-peripheral index, E-I index, Centrality index). The results showed that the Department of Environment, Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts, and Natural Resources and Watershed Management Organization are identified as first-level key actors, significantly influencing effective communication among stakeholders and playing a more active role compared to other participants in addressing challenges in geoheritage conservation. Therefore, these specific institutions should receive increased attention in the resource allocation process for geoheritage conservation.