THE PATH OF ALPINE SUSTAINABILITY. PARTICIPATORY TOOLS FOR TAKING CARE OF THE CULTURAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL HERITAGE OF THE MONTE ROSA MASSIF (NW-ALPS, ITALY)

Creating a valuable and effective geotourism initiative, such as geotrail, requires significant effort and a multidisciplinary approach. Geotourism aims to disseminate geoscientific knowledge, protect geological heritage, and support regional sustainable development. In the context of growing interest in UNESCO Global Geoparks (UGGp) and the role of geodiversity in ecosystems, it is crucial to develop initiatives rooted in scientific research and modern communication strategies. This thesis outlines the design and communication of an interpretive and participatory geotrail in Alagna Valsesia, an Alpine locality in the Sesia Val Grande UGGp, in northwestern Italy. The project has a dual aim: to protect and promote the area's geological and geomorphological heritage and to highlight its cultural landscape, especially the Walser community’s traditions. This integrated approach fosters a holistic appreciation of the environment and underscores the need for its conservation. Following a general introduction and literature review, the first part of the thesis focuses on clarifying concepts of geoheritage and geodiversity through semantic-ontological analysis. It explores the relationship between geodiversity and the presence of geoheritage, testing whether areas of high geodiversity also host significant geosites. A quali-quantitative geodiversity index map was created, and 25 geosites were identified and mapped. However, results indicate no clear spatial correlation between high geodiversity and geoheritage. This key finding suggests that while geodiversity mapping is useful for conservation strategies, it is not a reliable tool for recognizing geosites or guiding geotourism development. The thesis then presents a qualitative and quantitative evaluation and systematic inventory of potential geosites in Alagna Valsesia. Such assessments are essential tools for sustainable development in UGGp. For the qualitative analysis, a newly designed descriptive form was used, tailored to the context of the Piedmont Region. Divided into six sections, the form enables a well-rounded assessment of each site’s scientific, aesthetic, conservation, and tourism values. This detailed analysis allowed for nuanced classification and interpretation of geosites, contributing to the design of the geotrail and offering valuable insights for land managers and future geoconservation efforts. The thesis further explores participatory approaches and vernacular knowledge in Alpine geotourism, highlighting their value in enhancing geotrails and interpretation centers. Through qualitative analysis—including interpretive panel review, material observation, and expert interviews—insights were drawn from geotourism practices in the Northern French Alps. Findings show these tools promote geology awareness and sustainable development but are often underused or inconsistently applied. This underscores the need for standardized models to guide participatory strategies and integrate local knowledge more effectively into geotrail narratives. Finally, the thesis presents the geotrail design for Alagna Valsesia, developed through a co-creative, multidisciplinary approach. The result is an artist’s book that functions both as a geotrail guide and an educational tool. Collaborating with local Walser community members and artists from the dolomiticontemporanee collective, the project merges geoscientific communication with indigenous storytelling. The book highlights key observation points and connects geological phenomena with Walser heritage, offering a compelling, narrative-driven experience. This innovative communication method is adaptable to other UGGpcontexts and avoids the logistical challenges of physical installations in mountainous terrain. It promotes broad, accessible engagement with geoscientific and cultural knowledge across multiple platforms