THE KARST/KRAS REGION – NATIONAL AND WORLD HERITAGE
POKRAJINA KRAS - NAŠA IN SVETOVNA DEDIŠČINA

Summary/Abstract: The contribution presents the regional characteristics of the Karst/Kras, with particular emphasis on its historical significance given that two internationally established terms originate from it: karst as a universal notion and 'doline' for a sinkhole. There is a detailed presentation of the Karst/ Kras aquifer, the most important groundwater resource of the southwestern part of Slovenia, and its vulnerability and endangered status. The Škocjan Caves are explained as the only Slovenian natural site on the UNESCO world natural heritage list, and the author calls attention to the current threats to the Caves, the Karst/Kras Region and the Karst/Kras aquifer from increased pollution as much as all kinds of construction and alterations which do not adhere to the principles of sustainable development or the spirit of the UNESCO World Heritage Convention.

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