This Symposium is an event of the UNESCO International Geoscience Programme project IGCP 737-SMART (Smart Geology for Better Community – Integrating Geological Heritage of South-eastern Europe into Sustainable Development Strategies). The special celebration of International Geodiversity Day will take place on 6^th October as part of the Symposium programme. The Symposium aims to connect scientists of various scientific disciplines (from natural to social sciences), educators, destination managers and tourist workers, medical workers, local communities, non-governmental organizations, and decision-makers to establish foundations for the strategic development of a geopark on a national or regional level.

The Geopark synergy based on geoheritage recognition and conservation can provide an environment for overall community benefits including education, scientific research, development of geotourism, ecotourism, agrotourism, medical tourism, outdoor wellness, and many other programmes for sustainable development.

Geology as one of the basic sciences is largely neglected in many areas of life, especially sustainable development. Evaluating geological heritage and raising public awareness of its values and potential in sustainable development should lead to better protection and conservation of geodiversity which is a fundament of biodiversity.