Geoheritage and Sustainable Development in Yimengshan Geopark

The protection of geoheritage, popularization of geoscience, sustainable development of local society, and economic growth are the most important reasons for establishing a UNESCO Global Geopark. Yimengshan Geopark is an aspiring UNESCO Global Geopark. To date, no study has comprehensively described its geoheritage or put forward suggestions about its protection, sustainable development, and community involvement. In this paper, the geoheritage in Yimengshan Geopark is thoroughly investigated and described based on the classification of stratigraphic vestiges, rock relics, tectonic vestiges, landforms, water bodies, cultural significance, and other aspects. To achieve this analysis and address existing problems, a comprehensive SWOT analysis is conducted to examine variable situations. Further suggestions are subsequently put forward about the protection of geoheritage, education programs, geotourism, and sustainable regional development of this geopark. Finally, the prospect of the sustainable development of the geopark is briefly described.