“Diffused Geoparks”: Territorial Integration as Solution for a Shared Sustainable Growth Based on Geotourism in Italy, Japan and Tunisia

A novel approach to integrating UNESCO Global Geoparks (UGGps) with their surrounding areas, termed 'Diffused Geoparks,' is proposed as a strategy for sustainable geotourism development. This concept addresses the limitations of current UGGp models by expanding protection and management beyond designated boundaries to include linked natural, social, and cultural sites. The study, conducted across Italy, Japan, and Tunisia—including some UNESCO-listed cultural sites—demonstrates how territorial integration can foster local economic growth while preserving intangible heritage values. A five-step analytical framework was applied to assess the potential of geotourism as a driver for sustainable development in these regions.

Varriale, R., Genovese, L., & Aldighieri, B. (2022). “Diffused Geoparks”: Territorial Integration as Solution for a Shared Sustainable Growth Based on Geotourism in Italy, Japan and Tunisia. Heritage, 5(3), 2083–2105. https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage5030109