Economic Effects of Geotourism in Geopark TERRA.vita, Northern Germany

Guest editors’ note: In order to gain the necessary political and public support, geoparks have to demonstrate how they contribute to the socioeconomic development of their particular region. In addition to the other important tasks of nature protection, conservation of geologic heritage, and promotion of tourism, education, and research, geoparks have to evaluate the regional economic effects which are stimulated or increased through their activities. The results of the study presented in this paper demonstrate the considerable economic input through the activities of Geopark TERRA.vita, although no cause-effect relationship could be established due to the complex economic and political situation of the geopark.