Evaluation of Geological Heritage: Scientific Value

The scientific value of geological heritage is related to its typicality, uniqueness and rareness. Typicality refers to the formation of the geological heritage and can be used as a standard for reference. It can also refer to its size and area. It can be classified into four levels: global references, such as a Global Boundary Stratotype Section and Point (GSSP); national references (e.g., the national stratigraphic standard); regional references (e.g., the regional stratigraphic standard) and local references (local stratigraphic standard). Uniqueness refers to the unique geological evolution or unique form of the landscape. This can be subdivided into four types, namely, very unique, unique, moderately unique and unusual. Rarity refers to its geographical distribution and can be classified as the world-class (rare or the only example on Earth), country-class (only example in the country), region-class (only example in the province or region) and common (typical of an area). These...