Some fundamental concepts on geomorphological assets are reviewed and a methodology for their survey and assessment is presented and pointed out. Between the attributes that may confer value to a geomorphological asset, the scientific criterion is based on the perception of the laws that govern its evolution and its importance may be assessed according to four characters: as model of geomorphological evolution, as an object used for educational purposes, as a paleogeomorphological example and as an ecological support. Each of these characters can assume a higher or lower value owing to its rarity, that is, its interest in spatial terms.

The application of these concepts is presented through a case study in the territory of the Province of Modena (northern taly). Finally an attempt to numerically express the scientific importance of geomorphological assets is proposed, in order to weigh them in the process of the Environmental mpact Assessment.