Assessing Geotourism Aspects of Ungaran Geothermal Areas for Promoting Sustainable Energy through Volcano-Geothermal Tourist Destination Jenian Marin*, Atalya Paskarana, Eurico Bagas Sito Sondy, Johanes Agustian
Geological Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering, Diponegoro University
Jalan Prof. Soedarto, SH, Tembalang, Semarang, Indonesia
*jenian.marin[at]live.undip.ac.id
Abstract
The indigenous nature of geothermal energy allows us to bring the benefit to its nearest community. However, there is not much understanding of geothermal as sustainable energy among Indonesian citizens. Geotourism can be an opportunity to introduce the geological knowledge and foster the socio-cultural acceptance of society towards geothermal energy. This study aims to assess the potential of Ungaran volcano-geothermal area as tourist destination. The research method is collecting data on geothermal manifestations and volcanic feature sites, assessment of five parameters based on Kubalikova method, and hazard risk analysis. Study result identify six potential geosites: Gedong Songo manifestation area, Nglimut hot spring, Diwak-Derekan-Kaliulo warm spring, and Mawar camping area which featuring volcanic landscape. Five of six geosites have high geotourism value more than 50%, except for Kaliulo warm spring. The recommended activities to do are leisure activity in nature, hiking and camping, thermal bathing, historical and cultural tourism, and geological excursion. The tourists should be cautious of potential hazards risk from volcanic gases, hot and acid waters, slippery and unstable areas, landslide, rugged terrain, and extreme weather. A geotourism model is constructed to highlight each site and their attributes to volcano-geothermal setting, tourism activities, and possible risks. By exploring the natural and geological richness offered by this destination, the tourists will discover the uniqueness of volcano-geothermal tourism experience.
