Geomorphological Heritage and Conservation in Spain

Abstract

Spain is the country with the largest surface of protected natural areas in the European Union (around 27 % of the territory). This is due to some peculiar biogeographic factors, as well as to the high diversity (geodiversity) and uniqueness of the Spanish geomorphological landscapes. This chapter deals with the preservation of this important geomorphological heritage, which must be analyzed in a broader context of nature conservation and within the framework of geoconservation guiding principles. Nature conservation and geoconservation had a promising beginning in Spain during the first decades of the twentieth century, but due to historical ups and downs, this policy was not continued. The environmental movement during the sixties and seventies, together with the democratization of the country, led to a promising shift in nature conservation, but with minor changes regarding geological and geomorphological heritage management. During the last few years, scientific societies, universities, and other related groups have positively influenced the Spanish politicians and the public, resulting in significant advances in geoconservation. Nowadays, the Spanish geomorphological heritage is managed by regional governments through a complicate set of national, regional, and sectoral regulations. Additionally, the participation in international programs of nature conservation, such as those promoted by UNESCO (World Heritage Sites, Biosphere Reserves, and Geoparks), as well as some local and private initiatives, has recently undergone an important development.