Evaluating the Geodiversity, Geotourism, and Sustainable Development in Taihu Xishan National Geopark, China: An Integrated SWOT-AHP Method

The rapid development of geoparks has led to a growing global interest in geoheritage resources. The geodiversity of Taihu Xishan National Geopark, coupled with its ecological resources and rich cultural heritage, forms a solid foundation for the advancement of geotourism and geopark development. Nonetheless, it is imperative for the geopark to consistently tackle the challenges related to uneven geoheritage protection and insufficient planning for geotourism development. This study summarizes the representative geoheritage and the current state of geotourism in Taihu Xishan National Geopark. A qualitative and quantitative analysis was conducted using the SWOT-AHP model. The study assessed the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats associated with sustainable development in the geopark. A total of twenty-four SWOT factors were identified. The results indicated that the geopark's strengths and opportunities outweigh its weaknesses and threats. Based on the strategic vector, various opportunity-driven strategic measures have been proposed within the opportunities-strengths development strategy. The major focus of these efforts is to utilize the park's inherent advantages by actively seizing significant development opportunities. This study aims to offer references for resource conservation, tourism development, cultural heritage preservation, and sustainable development within geoparks.