GEOPARK GORONTALO

Aprilia Mohune1
Dr.Sc. Yayu Indriati Arifin, M.Si Supporting Lecture
1
Departement Geological Engineering, Gorontalo University, Gorontalo, Indonesia

Abstrak. Geopark,as a model for managing areas with unique geological,biological, and
cultural features, has become a primary focus in the development of sustainable tourism
worldwidw. This artcle explores the concept and significance of geoparks, highlighting the
development of geoparks in Indonesia with a specific focus on the case study of Geopark
Gorontalo. Geoparks serve not only as areas for environmental preservation but also as
educational tourist destinations that integrate principles of conservation, education, and
community empowerment.

Sustainable tourism is a crucial aspect of balancing environmental preservation with the

development of local economies. Geopark Gorontalo, as a case study, exemplifies concrete
efforts in leveraging geological uniqueness, biodiversity, and cultural heritage to support
sustainable tourism development. While geoparks offer significant opportunities, challenges
such as maintaining sustainability and effective governance remain central concerns.

Keywords: Geopark, sustainable tourism, geoheritage, Indonesia, Geopark Gorontalo,

geological diversity, nature conservation, community empowerment, tourism development.

I. INTRODUCTION ecology, sustainability, and community well-

In this era of globalization, the
concept of a geopark has emerged as a new
paradigm in the management of unique
natural resources. Geoparks symbolize the
integration of geological, biological, and
cultural diversity, holding immense potential
for sustainable tourism development. Global
communities are increasingly recognizing the
significance of preserving natural and
cultural heritage, and the need to intelligently
leverage these resources for economic and
educational purposes.
The meaning of a geopark extends
beyond its geological beauty or biodiversity;
it creates a harmonious balance between
being. This article aims to explore the
holistic meaning of a geopark, from its vital
role in supporting tourism to its impact on
environmental conservation and the
empowerment of local communities.
Tracking the evolution of the geopark
concept in Indonesia is a fascinating journey,
as the country boasts extraordinary
geodiversity. With a growing awareness of
the importance of environmental
preservation, geoparks in Indonesia become
increasingly relevant as a management model
that can be adopted by other nations
worldwide.

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 The discussion of the Geopark
Gorontalo case will provide in-depth insights
into the implementation of the geopark
concept on a local scale. Geopark Gorontalo,
with all its uniqueness, serves as a real-world
example of how geoparks can act as catalysts
for sustainable development, creating
positive impacts not only on the environment
but also on the lives of the surrounding
communities..
II. MEANING OF GEOPARK
The concept of geoparks first
emerged in Europe and was formally
presented during the United Nations
Conference on Environment and
Development (UNCED) Summit in 1992 in
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. UNCED embraced the
geopark concept as it aligned with the
principles of Agenda 21 of the Earth
Convention, emphasizing the enhancement of
the role of science in environmental
development for society. Subsequently, the
geopark concept gained further
reinforcement at the World Summit on
Sustainable Development in 2002 in
Johannesburg, South Africa. Since then,
UNESCO has adopted the geopark concept
as a method to promote the increased
function of geosciences in environmental
conservation while empowering communities
around geological heritage sites worldwide.
The first International Geopark
Conference took place in 2004 in Beijing,
China, followed by the second in 2006 in
Belfast, Northern Ireland, the third in 2008 in
Osnabruck, Germany, the fourth in 2010 in
Langkawi, Malaysia, and the most recent, or
fifth, in 2012 in Unzen, Japan.
Several definitions of geopark exist,
reflecting its multifaceted nature. Ibrahim
Komoo (1993) defines geopark as a
development concept where several nearby
geoheritage sites in a region are built and
managed by integrating conservation
principles and existing government spatial
plans formulated based on input and
participation from the community.
According to www.geopark.org, a
geopark is defined as a scenic spot of
geological heritage with significant
geological features rarely found, integrating
other forms of scenic beauty and cultural
existence within the unique region's scale and
distribution.
Based on the above definitions,
geopark can be formulated as a concept for
sustainable area management that
harmonizes three natural diversities:
geological diversity (geodiversity),
biodiversity, and cultural diversity. The goal
is to promote economic development rooted
in the conservation of these three diversities
and to empower local communities.
The discussion of geoparks in
Indonesia began in 2006 through articles by
Dr. Fauzie Hasibuan, M.Sc., and Dr. Ir.
Yunus Kusumahbrata, M.Sc. Since then,
efforts have been made, including the
formation of the Society of Geotourism
Observers (MAPEGI) under the auspices of
PP IAGI in 2008. The gradual efforts
culminated in the proposal of several
geoparks in Indonesia, with Mount Rinjani
being the first proposed to UNESCO.
In summary, the concept of geoparks
signifies a holistic approach to sustainable
development, integrating geological,
biological, and cultural diversities. The
journey of geopark recognition and
development in Indonesia reflects a growing
commitment to conservation, education, and
community empowerment.
III. GEOPARK IN INDONESIA
An in-depth examination of Geopark
Rinjani,Karangsambung-KarangBolong Zona
Selatan, and Natuna reveals their unique
geological features, biodiversity, and cultural
significance. These geoparks contribute
significantly to the conservation of
Indonesia's natural and cultural heritage.
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Pict 1: Geopark rinjani Lombok
3.1 National Geopark
3.1.1 Geopark Rinjani:
Location and Geological Features:
Situated in Lombok, Geopark Rinjani boasts
the iconic Mount Rinjani and the stunning
Segara Anak caldera lake. The geological
significance includes volcanic landscapes
and a rich history of volcanic activities.
Biodiversity and Cultural Heritage: Rinjani
Geopark is not only a geological marvel but
also home to diverse flora and fauna. The
local communities contribute to the cultural
tapestry with traditional practices and rituals.
3.1.2 Karangsambung-Karang Bolong
Zona Selatan
Location and Geological Features:
Located in Java, this geopark showcases
impressive karst landscapes, including
unique formations like Karangsambung and
Karang Bolong Zona Selatan. These
geological features highlight the region's
intricate history of limestone formation.
Biodiversity and Cultural Heritage: The
geopark is home to a variety of flora and
fauna adapted to the karst ecosystem.
Additionally, it preserves cultural heritage
tied to the karst landscapes.
Pict 2. Karangsambung geopark
3.1.3 Natuna Geopark
Location and Geological Features:
Situated in the Natuna Islands, this geopark
is characterized by its unique geological
formations, including ancient coral reefs and
diverse marine ecosystems. The geological
features emphasize the region's geological
history and biodiversity.
3.2 Geopark Gorontalo
The exploration of Geopark Gorontalo
delves into the intricate tapestry of its
geological wealth, emphasizing distinctive
features, diverse biodiversity, and the cultural
heritage woven into its landscapes. This
section aims to provide a comprehensive
understanding of Geopark Gorontalo,
detailing its geological wonders and
showcasing the proactive conservation
measures taken to safeguard this invaluable
geological treasure
Pict 3. The Secretary-General of the Global Geopark Network
(GGN), Guy Martini, conducted an inspection of the Otanaha
Fortress in the city of Gorontalo.
3.2.1 OLELE:
At this location, there is a lithological
contact consisting of volcanic breccia
(Middle to Late Miocene), predominantly
composed of angular blocks of various
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volcanic rocks embedded in a sandy matrix
with fragment sizes reaching 30-40 cm and
having an angular shape. Subsequently, the
formed limestone is in the form of massive
limestone (Holocene), dominated by reef
structures with clastic limestone inserts in the
form of calcirudite, predominantly composed
of fragmented bioclastic debris.
3.2.2 BOTUBARANI
At this observation location, there is a
contact between conglomerate of various
materials and clastic limestone. The
conglomerate consists of gravel-sized, well-
sorted particles, predominantly composed of
various lithic fragments of volcanic rocks
present in a sand matrix. These rocks are
believed to be fluvial river deposits in a
transitional environment. Subsequently,
clastic calcirudite limestone is deposited
gradually, dominated by fragments such as
coral, coral debris, and other bioclastic
fragments present in a carbonate sand-sized
matrix. The rock conditions indicate
incomplete compaction. Landscape: The
coastal cliff morphology, composed of
limestone, considering the rock texture
conditions, suggests that this limestone layer
is from the Quaternary period and has
undergone uplift due to Quaternary tectonic
processes."
Pict 4. The whale sharks in the waters of Botubarani have
been proposed by the Provincial Government of
Gorontalo to be designated as a National Geopar
3.2.3 BILUHU LIMESTONE
Sedimentary rocks of carbonate and
siliciclastic origin are observed, with
conglomerate deposits at the base exhibiting
sedimentary structures such as cross-bedding
and channel lenses indicative of fluvial river
deposits. Subsequently, the dominant rocks at
the location are reef limestone and clastic
limestone (chalkarenite-calcirudite). The
primary components of the clastic limestone
are bioclasts, fossil fragments, and some
lithic fragments of volcanic rocks.
Landscape: The coastal cliff morphology is
steep, reaching heights of up to 100 meters.
Additionally, coastal terraces have
developed, and considering the relatively
young fossil conditions from the Quaternary
period, the rocks at this location have
undergone significant uplift
IV. CONCLUSION
Geopark Gorontalo transcends its role as a
mere geological repository; it stands as a
symbol of collective dedication to preserving
the kaleidoscope of Earth's landscapes.
Beyond its geological wealth, Geopark
Gorontalo serves as a testament to the power
of collaborative efforts involving
communities and stakeholders, echoing a
broader call for global environmental
conservation.
The lessons drawn from Geopark Gorontalo
extend far beyond its geographical
boundaries. They offer profound insights into
the intricate balance required for the holistic
conservation of areas blessed with geological
abundance. The geopark becomes a case
study in the delicate interplay between
sustainable practices, community
involvement, and the acknowledgment of
cultural heritage in the larger narrative of
environmental stewardship.
In the global discourse on conservation,
Geopark Gorontalo emerges as a beacon,
illuminating the path towards a future where
the preservation of natural wonders goes
hand in hand with community well-being. Its
success story underscores the paramount
importance of fostering sustainable practices
that not only protect geological marvels but
also empower local communities and
celebrate the richness of cultural heritage.
As the world grapples with environmental
challenges, Geopark Gorontalo stands as a
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model, urging nations to adopt a Otanaha Fortress in the city of
comprehensive approach to conservation. Gorontalo.” Diakses dari
The imperative for sustainable practices, https://www.antaranews.com/berita/3624
active community participation, and the 987/ggn-meninjau-lokasi-pengusulan-
preservation of cultural legacies becomes a geopark-gorontalo
universal call echoed by Geopark Gorontalo's
journey. In essence, Geopark Gorontalo
invites the world to recognize that the truest
form of environmental stewardship
encompasses not only the safeguarding of
geological treasures but also the cultivation
of vibrant communities and the celebration of
diverse cultures, creating a harmonious
coexistence between humanity and the
planet.

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http://www.globalgeopark.org/aboutGGN/
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Antara News (2023) “The Secretary-General of
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Martini, conducted an inspection of the