Geoethics for the Future - Chapter 17 - Significance and insights from indigenous communities in Latin America: Cultural and societal factors and challenges in UNESCO Global Geoparks

UNESCO Global Geoparks (UGGps) are territories deeply committed to promoting sustainable development through close partnership with local communities. This commitment extends to the appreciation and preservation of both the natural (biotic and abiotic) and cultural (tangible and intangible) heritage. Special emphasis is placed on the practices and rituals associated with the cosmovision of these societies, highlighting their unique and intrinsic relationship with the dynamics of the Planet. This chapter presents various examples of this reality within Latin American UGGps, delving into the similarities and differences among these territories to showcase best practices in preserving and strengthening local cultural and social aspects. At the same time, it acknowledges the difficulties and challenges inherent in such endeavors. The overarching goal is to contribute to the promotion of social cohesion, ethics, respect for cultural diversity, and human creativity, fostering connections within communities and individuals.