MAES implementation in Greece: Geodiversity

• Published in: Journal of environmental management 2023-09, Vol.342, p.118324-118324, Article 118324
• Main Authors: Mallinis, Giorgos, Domakinis, Christos, Kokkoris, Ioannis P., Stefanidis, Stefanos, Dimopoulos, Panayotis, Mitsopoulos, Ioannis
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Biodiversity; Conservation of Natural Resources; Ecosystem; Ecosystem condition; Ecosystem services; Geodiversity hotspots; Greece; Humans; Land use management; Natural capital accounting; Wildfires
• ISSN: 0301-4797; 1095-8630
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.118324

The present study aims to support the Mapping and Assessment of Ecosystems and their Services (MAES) implementation in Greece, by synthesizing an indicator that could be used for abiotic attribute assessments and specifically for geodiversity. Such an indicator can be used not only for reporting obligations under EU initiatives but also for identifying “conservation hotspots”. Such areas, characterized by rich geodiversity, are important for supporting biodiversity and other ecosystem services. In addition, identification and mapping of threats to those areas, due to natural or anthropogenic processes, can be used for the introduction or reformation of protective environmental legislation. The geodiversity indicator has been compiled using geological, geomorphological, climatic, pedological and hydrological data layers, while threats to geodiversity have been produced by integrating the sub-indices of erosion, protection level, land degradation, mineral and/or ore extraction activity, and the concentration of wildfire ignition sites. Finally, a bivariate map highlights geodiversity “hotspots” in Greece, which were found to correspond in most cases with locations of rich geodiversity and poor protection from adverse natural or human induced processes, mainly due to the lack of protective legislation. The study's outcomes provide a baseline for scientifically informed decisions for conservation, management and spatial planning, while simultaneously complying with EU and national legislation and strategies for nature conservation and integrated development. [Display omitted] •Geodiversity is an important ecosystem attribute for MAES implementation.•A composite indicator is developed at national scale in Greece.•EU and national datasets (Earth observation and geospatial) are used.•Threats to geodiversity condition are also assessed.•A coherent approach for geodiversity and natural capital conservation and management.