Conservation of fossil sites in Malaysia

Lee, Chai Peng (2010) Conservation of fossil sites in Malaysia. In: Geological heritage of Malaysia: geoheritage conservation (1997-2009). Institut Alam Sekitar dan Pembangunan (LESTARI), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Selangor, pp. 73-83. ISBN 9789675227370

Palaeontological conservation differs fundamentally from other forms of conservation because fossils need to be dug up in order to be studied. Fossil sites are there to be used rather than to be preserved untouched. The goal of fossil site conservation is good husbandry and not conservation per se. The main threats to fossil sites in Malaysia are from natural processes such as tropical weathering and erosion or development related activities like construction, quarrying, mining, burial and flooding. Important fossil sites for conservation are those from which type fossils, rare fossils and extensively studied fossils have been obtained. In addition to the scientific value, of a site, its value is enhanced if it has other attractions for visitors. An integrated approach to developing and promoting the site is vital for its effective conservation. Conservation options include: rescuing fossils from threatened sites, leaving unthreatened sites alone and developing suitable sites for educational or geotourism purposes. In addition to protecting fossil sites, palaeontological conservation must include the proper documentation of fossil data, public education on fossils and the proper curation of fossils. Encouraging the developers, quarry and mine managers and the general public to report finds to the Department of Minerals and Geosciences or universities is very important.

Full text available from:

Abstract

Palaeontological conservation differs fundamentally from other forms of conservation because fossils need to be dug up in order to be studied. Fossil sites are there to be used rather than to be preserved untouched. The goal of fossil site conservation is good husbandry and not conservation per se. The main threats to fossil sites in Malaysia are from natural processes such as tropical weathering and erosion or development related activities like construction, quarrying, mining, burial and flooding. Important fossil sites for conservation are those from which type fossils, rare fossils and extensively studied fossils have been obtained. In addition to the scientific value, of a site, its value is enhanced if it has other attractions for visitors. An integrated approach to developing and promoting the site is vital for its effective conservation. Conservation options include: rescuing fossils from threatened sites, leaving unthreatened sites alone and developing suitable sites for educational or geotourism purposes. In addition to protecting fossil sites, palaeontological conservation must include the proper documentation of fossil data, public education on fossils and the proper curation of fossils. Encouraging the developers, quarry and mine managers and the general public to report finds to the Department of Minerals and Geosciences or universities is very important.

[error in script]

Item Type:	Book Section
Additional Information:	Available at Perpustakaan Sultan Abdul Samad, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43000 UPM Serdang, Malaysia. QE299.5 G345 Call Number
AGROVOC Term:	fossils
AGROVOC Term:	palaeontology
AGROVOC Term:	geological history
AGROVOC Term:	natural heritage
AGROVOC Term:	geological surveys
AGROVOC Term:	geologists
AGROVOC Term:	preservation
AGROVOC Term:	sustainable agriculture
Geographical Term:	Malaysia
Depositing User:	Ms. Azariah Hashim
Date Deposited:	02 Dec 2024 08:38
Last Modified:	02 Dec 2024 08:38
URI:	http://webagris.upm.edu.my/id/eprint/997

Actions (login required)

View Item