Assessment and management of submerged geomorphosites. A case study in Sardinia

Abstract
Within the scope of investigations concerned with the enhancement of the geological and geomorphological heritage in Italy, conducted during several research projects involving a number of research teams, methods were developed for the assessing and inventory of underwater sites of geological and geomorphological interest. The objective was to develop underwater trails for subaqua divers enhancing the value of all the environmental components present in the underwater world. The ultimate aim is to guide the divers towards a greater awareness and global perception and knowledge of all aspects of the submarine environment, not simply those associated with marine life. The proposed methodology is tested in the Capo Carbonara marine protected area in SE Sardinia (Italy).