Transforming volcanic landscapes into knowledge: geoheritage, virtual reality technologies, and geotourism in the Canary Islands

The volcanic landscapes of the Canary Islands constitute one of the most distinctive geoheritage assemblages in Spain, underpinning the scientific, educational, and touristic values that have contributed to the Spanish Inventory of Geological Sites of Interest (IELIG), multiple natural protected areas and UNESCO designations. These volcanic features not only embody an extensive record of geological processes but also offer an exceptional basis for sustainable tourism initiatives. In this context, the project ‘Canary Islands: Destination of Volcanoes’, seeks to establish a science-based geotourism product capable of enhancing public engagement while strengthening the conservation and responsible use of natural resources. The project employs a comprehensive methodology structured into nine main activities that integrate fieldwork, analytical procedures, and digital data processing. Building on the 300 geosites identified in the IELIG for the Canarian Archipelago, a specific assessment framework has been designed to select the 50 volcanic environments with the highest scientific, educational, and touristpotential. This process combines standards and requirements of sustainability, conservation status, degradation risk, accessibility, safety, and scenic-scientificvalues. The selected sites are being documented through the development of digital mapping products, adhering to international standards for spatial data quality and metadata. Complementary tasks include the acquisition of high-resolution drone imagery, photogrammetry, and 3D geological reconstructions that support the creation of virtual and augmented reality models. These digital products will serve to design interpretive scripts, animations, and immersive environments that aim to communicate complex geological processes in an accessible way to the general public. Additional activities address the creation of a unified geotourism brand, development of training programmes for local employment, and support for emerging business initiatives in the blue and green economy. Although the results are still in progress, the project is expected to generate a robust portfolio of scientifically validated and technologically innovative tools that enhance the touristic use and outreach of volcanic heritage. The integration of digital maps, VR/AR applications and scientific communication through innovation has the potential to diversify the regional geotouristic model, reduce environmental impact, and strengthen long-term conservation strategies. Ultimately, this initiative aspires to position the Canary Islands as an international reference for volcano-based geotourism grounded in science, sustainability, and innovation.Sub-Project 1 ‘Canary Islands, destiny of Volcanoes’ is funded by PROMOTUR Turismo Canarias, S.A. through Next Generation EU funds, PRTR. 2024krQ00nnn.