2024/04/03 by Garcia, Maria Da Gloria Motta, Nascimento, Marcos Antonio Leite Do
#Caribbean #Geoconservation #Geodivesity #Latin America
paper · doi:10.57647/j.gcr.2023.0602.16
The geodiversity of Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) is linked to the geological evolution of several tectonic units: the South American Platform, the Andean unstable areas (including the Caribbean, Northern, Central, and Southern Andes), and the Patagonian block, as well as terranes related to the North America and Pacific plates. From Argentina and Chile in the south to Mexico in the north, this geodiversity mirrors a geological narrative discernible in rocks that date back to 3.6 Ga, sediments, landforms, fossils, soils, and both tectonic and superficial active processes that give origin to volcanoes and earthquakes, deserts, glacial and mountainous areas. Serving as the abiotic facet of natural diversity, LAC´s geodiversity influences the rich biodiversity of the region, as well as cultural, social and economic aspects. Its understanding is then crucial for formulating territorial plans and public policies and establishing effective mechanisms for environmental conservation with a holistic approach. This is a task achievable only through effective communication with society, which is the role of geoconservation.