Mud Volcanoes of Azerbaijan as a Geological Heritage: Geoconservation, Geotourism, and the Prerequisites for the Creation of a Geopark

The mud volcanoes of eastern Azerbaijan and the adjacent South Caspian Basin form one of the most dense and morphologically diverse mud volcanic provinces in the world. This paper summarizes data on their distribution, typology, scientific and educational value, the current legal protection system, and the potential for geotourism development. Ayrantoken, Arzani, Gelenderakhtarma, and the island volcano Garasu are examined separately as examples of various morphological and spatial types. The analysis shows that the combination of active fluid manifestations, varied topography, and connections to deep petroleum systems determines the high potential of mud volcanoes as geological heritage sites. The state nature reserve, national regulation of geological parks, and emerging tourism infrastructure provide the foundation for the development of a geopark initiative. However, preparing a potential nomination for the UNESCO Global Geoparks program requires defining a single territory, establishing a specialized management body, developing a long-term geoconservation and security plan, and documenting the participation of local communities. The study concludes that Azerbaijan possesses the essential geological and institutional prerequisites for a future geopark, although systematic geosite assessment, integrated management, and community participation remain necessary before a UNESCO Global Geoparks application can be considered.