Distributed globally and covering an extremely wide array of geological contexts, UNESCO Global Geoparks (UGGps) present unique conservation challenges, particularly with regard to small-scale visitor impacts. Individual geoheritage sites within UGGps vary widely in substrate durability, scientific value, and visitor motivations, rendering one-size-fits-all approaches ineffective. Here, we review the empirical literature on small-scale interventions used within UGGps and describe a general, adaptive approach to mitigating visitor impacts. The approach is based on linking four interconnected classes of intervention: visitor segmentation, visit tailoring, behavioural modification tools, and activity zoning. Initially, visitor segmentation (determination of who visits the geopark and why) informs dispersal strategies and tailoring of visits. Next, context-specific behavioural modification tools are implemented to shape and/or reduce the incidence of specific on-site actions. Finally, activity zoning translates the insights gained via visitor segmentation and monitoring into broader management decisions. Within this general approach, educational infrastructure and monitoring/feedback systems are integrated as independent tools that are most effective when they guide the application and adaptive improvement of the four ground-level interventions described in the literature. The resulting framework provides geopark managers with an evidence-based system for mitigating visitor impacts at geoheritage sites.
