GEOTOURISM AS A NEW OBJECT OF STUDY IN EARTH SCIENCE

Abstract

Geotourism is here considered as an outdoor extension of the study of geological and geographical museum collections. Like ecotourism, geotourism is an integral constituent of scientific tourism. Whereas ecotourism is interested in biodiversity, geotourism is concerned with the variety of geological structures, minerals, rocks, fossils and landforms. Forms of synthesis of museum work and geotourism in the preservation and study of geological and geomorphological objects are traced. The importance of geoparks in the conservation of geoheritage and the prospects of their creation in Russia are considered. Expansion of geopark network is proposed, in view of the experiences of museum geological departments. Abandoned underground mines and similar objects are proposed as a basis for geotourism and as objects of geodiversity. The experience of creating geological museums on their basis is given. Coal mines present an example of such potential for geological excursions, given the history of past catastrophes. The elements of mystery inherent in geological and geomorphological excursions captivate tourists, increasing the attraction of earth sciences. The possibilities of geotourism in expanding the subject field of geology, geography and geomorphology are considered. Along with the activities of geological museums, geotourism is seen as one of the main avenues for integrating geosciences with society. Amateur science is able to contribute to the verification of scientific knowledge, and to new breakthroughs in science.