The Combined Use of GIS and Generative Artificial Intelligence in Detecting Potential Geodiversity Sites and Promoting Geoheritage

Abstract

The concept of geosites and geodiversity sites that document selected elements of geodiversity has proved to be extremely useful in the preservation and communication of the abiotic diversity of the Earth. However, the process of the designation, description, evaluation and, finally, promotion of geosites requires a fair amount of effort. This hinders the recognition of geosites and the development of geoparks in many areas that would otherwise benefit from their rich but undervalued abiotic environment. To rectify this, the present study introduces the use of automated geographic information system (GIS) mapping and generative artificial intelligence (GAI) for the designation and promotion of points of geological interest and potential geodiversity sites. When used effectively, these techniques permit the rapid development of geodiversity site inventories and, eventually, their dissemination to the general public and decision-makers. In this study, GAI is employed to produce diverse promotional content, both textual and visual, that facilitates geoscientific communication. A case study of an aspiring geopark located in Poland (Central Europe) is discussed, showing that GAI has the potential to enable the rapid development of easy-to-understand and diverse educational materials, limiting the amount of resources and labour required for the effective promotion of geodiversity.