Sustainable Development Goals at Baku State University.

A scientific seminar entitled “The Geoecological Potential of Azerbaijan’s Mud Volcanoes and Prospects for Integration into the UNESCO Global Geopark Model” was held at the Faculty of Ecology and Soil Science of Baku State University as part of activities dedicated to Science Day in Azerbaijan.

The seminar was delivered by Tahir Yunuslu, a doctoral student of the Department of Geographical Ecology. In his presentation, he provided a comprehensive overview of the role of Azerbaijan’s mud volcanoes within natural landscape systems, their geoecological characteristics, and their potential evaluation within the geopark framework.

As part of the research, the spatial distribution, geomorphological features, and ecogeographical functions of 16 mud volcanoes located on the Absheron Peninsula were analyzed using modern geographic information systems and remote sensing data. The spatial analyses revealed the contribution of mud volcanoes to landscape formation, their involvement in geochemical processes, and the unique ecological conditions they create for biodiversity.

Based on the findings of the study, an ecogeographical approach was applied to assess the mud volcanoes within the geopark model. Several volcanoes were identified as having significant scientific, environmental, and tourism potential. The presentation also emphasized that the conservation of mud volcanoes as geological heritage sites and their use for geotourism could contribute to the socio-economic development of surrounding regions.

The seminar highlighted the main results of the research and outlined future directions for study. It was noted that evaluating mud volcanoes within the geopark concept is of considerable importance for preserving Azerbaijan’s natural heritage and promoting it at the international level, including within the framework of the UNESCO Global Geoparks initiative.

The event concluded with questions from participants and discussions on the topic.

SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 15 (Life on Land)