Geoheritage perspectives through creation of Geoparks in Kazakhstan - A case study

Abstract

This research project examines the possibilities for creating Geoparks in Kazakhstan. In recent years, not only the rich cultural history but also the geological heritage of the country between the Altai Mountains and the Caspian Sea has attracted the interest of international researchers. The sheer number of geologically significant sites makes selecting an area for a Geopark a challenging undertaking. This makes it all the more important to conduct thorough research in advance of creating Geoparks in Kazakhstan in order to identify the best possible location. Another important aspect is the fact that, in a corner of the world that has always been fraught with tension, the Geopark movement could prove to be a useful tool for cross-border cooperation. This work attempts to link the many aspects together and present a potential overall picture of the future of Geoparks in Kazakhstan. The basic research carried out in the course of this work provides useful input for further Geopark research in Kazakhstan.