"This site can be developed through sustainable development and used for geo-nature laboratories, geo-research, and education," Acting Head of the Geology Agency Mohammad Wafid noted in a statement here on Wednesday.
Wafid remarked that these sites can also be used for geotourism development, so as to have a direct economic impact on the local community.
The designation of these geological heritage sites is expected to become a reference in regional spatial planning, so as to create harmony between the management of natural resources and the environment in Lebak District.
The geological heritage is also expected to be able to realize sustainable development and improve welfare of the local community based on conservation, education, and tourism development through the geopark concept.
The decree on the designation of geological heritage was handed over directly to Lebak Regent Iti Octavia Jayabaya at the Lebak District Hall, Banten, on December 13, 2022.
Lebak Regent Iti Octavia Jayabaya said the local government is committed to always protecting and maintaining the region's geological heritage.
"After this designation, we should continue to protect, maintain, and also develop it through the three pillars of conservation, education, development and community empowerment in a just and sustainable way," Octavia stated.
Earlier, on October 10 2021, the Geological Survey Center of the Geological Agency had held a group discussion with the Lebak District Government in order to discuss the geological heritage in Lebak.
Based on the results of verification conducted by the Geological Survey Center, Lebak District has at least 32 sites as candidates for designation of geological heritage spread across the region.
This geological heritage is still closely related to the geological framework of the Bayah Dome that is well-known in earth science research.
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Translator: Sugiharto Purnama, Katriana
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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