The main threats to geosites are construction work, but also erosion or changes on land often due to human impact. The main causes of damage to geosites are:
Destruction – can be caused by exploitation of certain minerals.
Reduction – caused by paths, roads, construction work etc.
Cover – caused by reservoirs, inhabited areas, landfills, soil reclamation, afforestation etc.
Priority in conservation from a professional point of view could for instance be given to places where:
Geosites are well preserved and have a scientific importance.
History of geological periods or events is preserved.
A lot of research has been carried out and a long history of research exists.
Research can be repeated.
A lot of geological knowledge has been supplied.
A certain period has been researched and described (reference site).
Geosites are unique on a global scale and/or are special for Iceland.