July 26, 2023 - Page 2 of 2 - Galapagos Islands Travel

Discovering Galapagos Cacti & Their Resilient Beauty

Cacti are silent witnesses of life’s most resilient forms in the remote and magical Galapagos Archipelago. They rise majestically from volcanic rocks and arid land. They have adapted and survived over the years, despite the challenging terrains and lava-fields of the Galapagos Islands. This story explores the world of Galapagos Cacti. We uncover a fascinating narrative of survival, and an incredible diversity of species. This region is home to a wide variety of endemic species that are unique to the area. Their beauty and adaptability can be marveled at.

Opuntia Cactus, also known as the Galapagos Tuna is one of the most iconic species in Galapagos. The Galapagos Tuna is also called this cactus. The flat, green cladodes and the juicy fruits of this fish are adaptations that help it survive in the arid climates on the different islands. Galapagos endemic species, which vary from island-to-island, are vital to the ecosystem. They provide food and shelter to various bird species, land iguanas and giant tortoises.

Galapagos is home to a number of endemic species, including the lava cacti. These small plants, with their clumps and cylindrical stems, are found on the youngest islands of the archipelago. They have developed adaptations that allow them to thrive and survive in volcanic landscapes. Lava cacti were one of the first plants to colonize recent lava flows, opening the door for other plant species.

The Galapagos Cactus is also an endemic species that stands out in the Enchanted Islands. The cactus’ distinctive candelabra shape helps it survive in rocky and arid environments because its stems store water. It is an important resource for many bird species such as Darwin’s Finches and Galapagos Doves, who find shelter and food within it.

The Opuntia Cactus is found across various islands of the Galápagos and has evolved unique adaptations to thrive within its ecosystem. ©Lawrence Conaway

Galapagos’ natural ecology cannot be maintained without the conservation of its endemic cactus. These plants are unique and play a vital role in ecosystems, providing food and support for a variety of organisms. They are able to adapt to the harsh conditions of islands, and their ability to store moisture in their tissues over months allows them to be pioneer umbrella species to colonize lava fields. The intricate eco-webs of the archipelago are maintained by conserving the endemic species of cactus.

We are fascinated by the adaptability of Galapagos Cacti and their exquisite beauty. The presence of these cacti on the different islands reminds us of the need to protect the Galapagos biodiversity. All of these succulents are able to survive extreme conditions. They teach us valuable lessons about resilience and interconnectedness of life. We must protect this natural heritage and ensure that these species flourish in their habitats to the benefit of future generations.

The Lava Cactus (Brachycereus nesioticus) is the only species in this genus, which is restricted to the Galápagos and It is one of the first species to colonize fresh lava flows. ©Sandra Hotrum

Youth Leadership and Conservation Inspired by Experiential Learning

Environmental conservation and experiential learning have become increasingly important in the Galapagos Islands. A growing number of islanders recognize that education is a key tool in raising environmental awareness. Sebastian Pilla is a Galapagos native and a shining example. He embarked in 2023, in his last year of university, on an inspirational initiative with the financial backing of Galapagos Conservancy.

Sebastian developed his educational program “Experiential processes for Adolescents & Youth in Galapagos Community” based on two educational initiatives to promote the care of Galapagos Islands.

The first initiative aimed to encourage community leadership in young people by encouraging them to analyze community issues and find solutions that align with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The second initiative aimed to use photography as a tool for conservation through workshops, photographic excursions, and educational activities, in collaboration with local scientists and park rangers.

This project offered experiential learning in protected areas in order to promote an appreciation of the natural environment, and to remind the community about the privilege it is to live in the Galapagos Islands. The Galapagos National Park Directorate and other allies provided strategic support to the project.

Activities included workshops that focused on SDGs. They also included talks with local stakeholders and visits to agroecological farming operations. The program’s activities included experiential workshops focused on the SDGs, talks with local stakeholders, visits to agroecological farms, monitoring of emblematic species, and ecosystem restoration.

Dr. Jorge Carrion is our Director of Conservation and he commends Sebastian on his leadership in this project, which has motivated the Galapagos Youth to be more engaged with their environment. Jorge Carrion believes that young people such as Sebastian are essential allies for conservation. He is confident that Sebastian’s project can significantly foster community interest in caring for and improving the Galapagos Islands.

Over 60 youth received hands-on education and learned in an enjoyable manner how to protect their home, the Galápagos Islands © Sebastián Pilla / Galápagos Conservancy

Galapagos Sustainable Style Revolution: How one woman is leading the way

Diana Garcia’s inspiring story is a great example of how sustainable fashion can be found in the Galapagos Islands. Diana Garcia, with the support of Galapagos Conservancy is changing the textile industry in her locality by combining beauty and environmental responsibility. She’s also reshaping how we perceive fashion.

Diana, a Galapagos-based resident, has led a pioneering sustainable fashion project. She drew on her impressive 20 years’ experience in textiles. Her workshop, which is guided by the 3Rs – recycle, reuse and reduce – gives new life to discarded materials. It creates a variety of accessories and decorative items, from bags, cushions, bows, and headbands. The creative upcycling reduces carbon footprint and pollution by a significant amount.

The impact of the project has been extraordinary. Diana is a shining model of responsible and efficient use of natural resources. She has captured the attention of consumers who are committed to sustainability. The success of the initiative has also led to increased production and part-time employment, boosting economic growth and resilience for the Galapagos Community.

Diana thanked Galapagos Conservancy deeply for its role in her mission to promote sustainable fashion. She attributes the success of her project to the “invaluable” support she received from Galapagos Conservancy. This help allowed her upgrade her workshop, adding industrial machines and workbenches, which ensured more efficient production.

We are proud to support female entrepreneurs such as Diana, whose efforts promote a sustainable culture in the archipelago. Diana’s story is a testimony to the power of a bold vision backed up by proper support to transform an industry and contribute to an economically and environmentally sustainable future for our island.

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Diana’s eco-friendly approach shines as she crafts fabric bags from recyclable materials, advocating for reduced plastic bag usage. ©Galápagos Conservancy

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With creativity and sustainability, Diana crafts beautiful cushions from fabric scraps, showcasing the beauty of recycled materials. ©Galápagos Conservancy

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