Does digital transformation drive innovation in UNESCO global Geoparks? Evidence from a global survey on the role of digital tools

International conservation policy has increasingly recognized the importance of abiotic environments for sustainable development, geodiversity conservation, and education. UNESCO Global Geoparks are critical areas for preserving geoheritage and promoting geodiversity. However, geoparks often face resource limitations, with managers seeking ways to boost visitation, improve efficiencies, and the protection of geosites. Digital tools offer promising solutions for this protection and education, and can aid decision-making in the sustainable development of geotourism destinations like geoparks, yet little is known about their global adoption across the network. This study presents the first global analysis of digital tool usage in geoparks via a survey of 112 geoparks from 40 countries. Analysis using binary and negative binomial logistic regression models reveals that staff experience and technological awareness significantly influence digital tool adoption. The adoption of specific technologies is associated with the frequency of usage, geopark size, geopark age, and stage of the geopark revalidation lifecycle. Findings show partial but uneven adoption of digital tools in geoparks, with widespread use of web and mobile applications contrasting with low uptake of emerging technologies. The respondents indicated limited usage of digital tools in geosite protection and maintenance, visitor evaluation, and school materials. Policy recommendations include targeted funding for digital tool uptake, capacity building to increase technological awareness, and user-informed design of digital tools. Creating communities of practice to foster global collaboration and ensure equitable access to digital tools would lead to improved outcomes.