Geoconservation – Dr Colin Prosser

In 1949, Great Britain became the first place to enact national legislation with the explicit aim of conserving important geological sites and features and has been a leader in geoconservation ever since.  The profile of, and resources available for geoconservation, have, however, always lagged well behind those afforded to the conservation of wildlife.  Despite this, there have been many major achievements over the last 77 years and there is now increasing activity at an international level which offers some significant opportunities and possibilities for geoconservation in future.

This presentation describes the 19th Century origins of geoconservation in Britain, the steps which led to the importance of geological sites and features being recognised by government and included in the countryside and nature conservation legislation developed during, and just after the Second World War.  It describes how the principles, policy and practice of geoconservation have developed up to the present day.  In doing so, it touches on the threats facing geological sites, the legislation, guidance and activity used to manage them, and the growing importance of local and international influence and action.  It presents an assessment of the status of geoconservation in Britain; for example, progress with protected sites such as Local Geological Sites, SSSIs, NNRs and UNESCO Global Geoparks, the recognition of geoconservation in government policy, and by academia as a scientific discipline.  It also touches on the importance of ensuring that geology is widely recognised as an integral part of the natural environment.   Finally, the future challenges and opportunities facing geoconservation are explored.  For example, what does the current political expectation that conservation should focus on the social and economic benefits it provides, rather than on its intrinsic value, mean for geoconservation, what are the implications of climate change, and what might the growing interest and activity at an international level lead to in terms of future opportunities for geoconservation.

Biography

Colin recently left Natural England after 37 years working in geoconservation, applying legislation, shaping policy and developing practical approaches to safeguard and management of sites.   He has a BSc from the University of Manchester and a PhD from Swansea.  He has worked extensively with geological SSSIs, Local Geological Sites, the mineral extraction industry and UNESCO Global Geoparks, and is a past President of the Geologists’ Association, the current GA lead on geoconservation, and is actively involved with the Black Country UNESCO Global Geopark.  He is also editor of the Proceedings of the Geologists’ Association, specialising in papers on geodiversity and geoconservation, and has published over 100 papers, books and articles on geoconservation.

This lecture will be offered in a hybrid format. Please join us in person if you can, or register to attend virtually via zoom using the link below.

Venue:
St Francis Of Assisi RC Church, 110 Warwick Rd, Kenilworth CV8 1HL
https://maps.app.goo.gl/9CGWRNdgFfttDKtd7

Register in advance to attend virtually:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/zZhxL8LfRzCglm0ZsHucWQ