摘要：The concept of geodiversity appears to have grown out
of the discussions around biodiversity, and has evolved
over time to become both a tool and a theoretical concept. The paper presents an overview of this conceptual
evolution, leading to formulation of the argument
that geodiversity is a broader term than geological
diversity. Consequently, it is proposed that the concept
should take into account all abiotic elements, processes and relations to the natural system and human
activity The overview serves as a basis for focussing
on the constituent elements of geodiversity that lead
to the richness of variety in biotopes, ecosystems or
landscapes and that infiuence its use in theoretical,
educative and geoconservation terms. The suggestion
is made to include four levels in a hierarchy of abiotic
diversity (particles, elements, places and landscapes).
several approaches to measuring and quantifying
geodiversity are discussed, pointing to a need for a
geodiversity index which links the different physical
elements with processes in the soil, hydrology and
geomorphology, as well as with topographical factors
(orientation, slope and radiation).
