Development of multi-criteria and methodology for selection of geosites for the potential geopark “Kratovo-Zletovo”

This study examines and applies a multi-criteria evaluation framework to assess micro-geological sites within the Kratovo-Zletovo region and to identify priority localities for prospective designation as part of UNESCO Global Geopark. The Kratovo–Zletovo region in northeastern North Macedonia is a compact but vibrant patchwork of geological, cultural, and mining heritage that has been proposed repeatedly as the country’s first geopark by Leptikova et al. 2019 [1]. The area’s preserved volcanic landforms, mineral deposits, and traditional towns (most notably Kratovo) create an excellent case for a protected geopark that links earth-science values with local history, education, and sustainable tourism. Beyond dramatic volcanic cones, the region is also an important ore district. Historic mining and mineral occurrences around Zletovo and Kratovo (cerussite, copper, and other ore minerals) are part of the area’s geodiversity and tell how geology shaped local economies and settlements for centuries. The mineralogy and old mine workings are themselves geo-sites of scientific and interpretive interest. Turning Kratovo–Zletovo into a geopark requires addressing several practical issues: securing legal protection for key geo-sites; cleaning and stabilizing old mining areas where safety is a concern; investing in visitor infrastructure (trails, signage, small museums) and creating revenue streams that benefit local communities rather than creating mass-tourism pressure. Any geopark plan should integrate cultural heritage and biodiversity, as well as the needs of residents, to ensure long-term local support. Selecting geosites for geotourism, conservation, education, or research purposes involves a structured, multi-criteria assessment. The selection process ensures that the most significant geological features are identified, documented, protected, and potentially promoted. Using a structured, transparent multi-criteria approach ensures the protection and optimal use of these valuable natural assets as well as appropriate nomination for UNESCO Geopark. In this article, applying multi-criteria evaluation—an approach used in geopark initiatives worldwide—the Kratovo-Zletovo region was assessed to identify priority sites for future inclusion in a Geopark. According to the results obtained from the expert evaluation, we can conclude that three localities, including Earth pyramids near v. Kuklica, Geoarchaeological occurrence Cocev Kamen and Lesnovo cone and caldera, were ranked with the highest score as key sites for the proposed UNESCO Global Geopark. Other localities received lower scores, mainly due to criteria such as accessibility, infrastructure, and presentation, which can be significantly improved through targeted measures and management activities.