Geoconservation

Once we destroy an important rock sequence or glacial landform, we can never re-create it. So, although rocks have lasted millennia and may seem ‘hard’ and ‘invulnerable’ they do need protection.

Quarrying, urban and rural development, land-fill waste disposal, road building and coastal protection are just some of the activities that threaten and could damage Wales’ geodiversity.

Geoconservation includes the protection of geological areas – geosites. It also includes activities that promote the sustainable use of geodiversity resources for education and enjoyment.

The government, through official bodies such as CCW, has traditionally been responsible for protecting geodiversity.

We do so by designating Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and National Nature Reserves (NNR). In recent years local voluntary groups have also helped with this process by choosing RIGS - Regionally Important Geodiversity Sites.