Geopark Activities Geared Towards Disaster Prevention and Education: Features and Progress of the Muroto Geopark, Japan

GEOPARK ACTIVITIES GEARED TOWARDS DISASTER PREVENTION AND EDUCATION: FEATURES AND PROGRESS OF THE MUROTO GEOPARK, JAPAN

TADAHIRO SHIBATA

Muroto Geopark Promotion Committee, 25-1 Ukitsu, Muroto City, Kochi, JAPAN

Abstract: The Muroto Geopark is an aspiring geopark focussed towards disaster prevention and education. We aim to offer visitors experience-based tours which provide them with various learning opportunities. Visitors can learn about the development of the earth as well as the community’s way of achieving a symbiotic relationship with nature. earthquakes occur periodically while typhoons affect the area every year. Therefore, the community’s focus is on how to adapt to the hazardous natural environment, overcome repeated disasters and appreciate nature’s blessings. As a consequence, our geopark activities aim to educate the public on disaster prevention. The efforts are aligned with the concept of “science communication”. This paper introduces various features of Muroto Geopark including a open course called, “Geopark Meister (Master) Course.” This course has contributed to disaster prevention education in this region and has improved networking among community members.