Area-based on Sustainable Development Goals to Drive Khon Kaen Geopark Towards Global Geopark Status

Abstract

This article aims to analyze the Area-based development approach for Khon Kaen Geopark under the framework of sustainable development goals as a guideline for driving towards becoming a global geopark. Area-based development in this context is an integration between natural resource conservation, local social and economic development, and the promotion of unique culture. It emphasizes the role and importance of the geopark as an area with geological, natural, and cultural values, as well as the opportunities and challenges that Khon Kaen Geopark faces in the process of developing towards the international level, covering important sustainable development goals, namely Goal 15: Natural Resource Conservation, Goal 4: Educational Development, and Goal 8: Promoting Local Economy. This leads to practical approaches to Area-based development, including appropriate land use planning, sustainable natural resource management, building networks of cooperation between communities and related organizations, promoting community participation, and developing ecotourism activities that are consistent with the local context. In addition, lessons learned from other successful global geoparks can be used as guidelines for further development of the geopark. Therefore, integrated development that truly responds to the needs of local communities is very important for future development in both practical and policy terms, so that Khon Kaen Geopark can become an internationally recognized global geopark.