THE MAKING OF DONG VAN KARST PLATEAU GEOPARK: TRACING ITS ORIGIN THROUGH THE EVOLUTION OF A COOPERATION PROJECT ON KARST RESEARCH

MICHIEL DUSAR, JAN MASSCHELEIN, OKKE BATELAAN, RUDY SWENNEN, DANNY WILDEMEERSCH AND TRAN TAN VAN

Abstract: The establishment of Đồng Văn Karst Plateau (DVKP) as the first GGN member in Việt Nam is the outcome of nearly 20 years of Belgian-Vietnamese cooperation on karst research in Northern Việt Nam, shifting focus from natural resources engineering over facilitating nature conservation towards a more holistic approach by establishing a geopark. The mountain karst regions of Northern Việt Nam combine magnificent scenery and diverse ethnic cultures, which are threatened by environmental and social problems and confronted with a widening welfare gap with more lowland regions. The geopark concept has been introduced as an alternative way to poverty reduction through knowledge-based, balanced development and conservation, by strengthening ecological management of natural resources and social learning of all stakeholders. Development of DVKP Geopark is advancing rapidly while facing many more challenges than in average geoparks. The ultimate challenge should be not to lose the overwhelming impact of the pristine landscape and rich culture on visitors today.