Geoconservation Research (Geoconserv. Res.) Social Participation as a Tool for Protection and Enhancement of Las Loras UNESCO Global Geopark Paleontological Heritage (Spain) Volume 4 (2021) Issue 2, December 2021 - Paleontological Heritage and Geoconservation in the UNESCO European Geoparks (Part II) edited by Dan Grigorescu, Michael Benton, Vachik Hairapetian 2023 11 17 Social Participation as a Tool for Protection and Enhancement of Las Loras UNESCO Global Geopark Paleontological Heritage (Spain) 10.30486/gcr.2021.1912231.1041 EN José Angel Sánchez Fabián Las Loras UNESCO Global Geopark, Spain Karmah Salman Las Loras UNESCO Global Geopark, Spain Nicolás Gallego Rojas Las Loras UNESCO Global Geopark, Spain Journal Article 2023 11 17 For many years, even before it was designated as Las Loras UNESCO Global Geopark, work was carried out to promote and protect the geological heritage of the territory. To this end, an innovative model of governance was introduced, involving local people in the management of heritage by means of citizen participation processes and Geo-volunteering. This work with the local public is enabling the collaboration of private collectors in paleontological exhibitions, geotourism activities, research and even permanent donations of collections, and land management and maintenance agreements for sites of interest. The outcome of all this work is an increase in pride and sense of belonging for the local population. Simultaneously, a program of geoeducation in schools within the Geopark has been carried out for many years with outstanding results.