Scientific publications

The Republic of Karelia, situated within the Fennoscandian Shield, represents a unique geological archive spanning more than 3.5 billion years of Earth's history – from the formation of early continental crust and Achaean greenstone belts, through Proterozoic volcanic sedimentary complexes and unique mineral systems, to late glacial events. The geological evolution of Karelia is reflected in numerous geoheritage objects, including stratotype sections, paleontological localities, mineralogical-petrographic monuments, geomorphological and tectonic features, astroblemes, as well as historical mining and industrial complexes. Based on an inventory of previously identified geoheritage sites and a cluster approach to recreational land use, several geographically and thematically coherent geoclusters have been distinguished, each with its own geological narrative and recreational potential. The case of the Ruskeala Mining Park demonstrates the effectiveness of geoheritage commercialization through the integration of scientific, entrepreneurial and public potentials. The paper substantiates the concept of geological heritage as a new type of natural resource – one fundamentally different from non-renewable raw material reserves in that instead of diminish with use, its value grows through conservation, interpretation and ongoing scientific study. The idea of establishing a network of geoparks and visitor centers in Karelia, including in the republic's capital, Petrozavodsk, is proposed as a driver for integrated regional development. It is shown that geological history and geoheritage sites can serve as a foundation for shaping the regional identity and a new image of the territory – as an open-air museum, and as a center for naturebased tourism and education.