Is It worth assessing geodiversity numerically? A comparative analysis between quantitative and qualitative approaches in Miguel Pereira Municipality, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Abstract

The interest in the cartographic representation of geodiversity has grown in recent years. However, the application of geodiversity maps in nature conservation and territorial management policies is still under study, especially concerning quantitative methodologies and geodiversity indices. Aiming to contribute to this topic, a set of correlation analyses were performed between quantitative and qualitative maps, as well as correlations between these and sites of geological interest, land-use, and vegetation maps using Miguel Pereira municipality, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, as a study area. A geodiversity index map (quantitative approach) was used, and a geodiversity map (qualitative approach) was produced based on GIS procedures and tools through a counting technique and the association between landforms and, geology, soils, and hydrology, respectively. The geodiversity map showed a better correlation between geodiversity and the other nature and anthropic elements, while the quantitative assessment, although having a positive correlation with those elements, showed a weak or very weak correlation. The cartographic outputs in geodiversity units (qualitative approach) best supported this correlative analysis highlighting its use in land-use and nature conservation management. In contrast, the geodiversity index map showed complementary information and could be combined with the qualitative approach for more sustained results.