Ephemeral geomorphodiversity: Conceptual debate, valuation, and heritage management

Abstract

This work engages in a discussion on the concept of the ephemeral and the active in Geomorphology, serving as the foundation to explore the potentiality of its heritage aspect. Commencing with conceptual aspects to reach a well-considered definition, an attempt is made to classify ephemeral phenomena from three perspectives: the chronological, based on the duration of landforms; that related to geomorphological dynamics; and the recurrence of the phenomena that modify them. The proposed objective is for this classification to define and differentiate various types of ephemeral geomorphological heritage, enabling their proper assessment and management from an original and specific perspective.

Subsequently, the article directs its attention to the keys that allow for the comprehension and organization of ephemeral geomorphological heritage resources. It advocates for focusing on the scientific significance of these phenomena rather than their formal appearance. Emphasis is placed on their role as indicators of environmental and climatic changes, in addition to their value for education and raising awareness about current and future environmental challenges.

The conclusion is reached that the treatment of these resources requires a strategy tailored to their essence, as their changing and mobile nature hinders the use of management plans successfully applied to other types of heritage. The key lies in understanding that the evolution of landforms and their dismantling are not synonymous with degradation but represent another facet of heritage value to be enhanced through innovative techniques. A final compendium establishes the foundations underpinning this specific strategy, seeking to elevate this heritage to a status on par with other well-established heritage categories within the realm of Geomorphology.