Signing of the Acknowledgement of Receipt for the donation of equipment and supplies to reinforce invasive species control and prevention efforts.

Strengthening Galápagos Conservation through Inter-Institutional Cooperation and Technological Innovation

Galapagos Conservancy just delivered advanced molecular-genetics laboratory equipment to Galapagos Biosecurity and Quarantine Agency. This new technology will help biosecurity agents prevent the entry of pest species to the archipelago and reduce the illegal trafficking of indigenous species out of islands.

A Galapagos Conservancy Board Member enabled the purchase of equipment for DNA sequencing through Goldman Sachs gives. The equipment transfer and gift was made possible by an Inter-Institutional Cooperation Agreement, which was facilitated in Ecuador by the Conservando Galapagos Foundation, ABG’s operating arm.

Galapagos Conservancy also provided ABG with additional resources in order to improve quarantine controls through the automation of the Sworn Declaration of Goods. This is a requirement of all visitors to Galapagos. This process is currently done using manual forms that are distributed during flights. The new digital system online will eliminate paper, reduce errors and increase efficiency.

Jean Pierre Cadena is the Executive Director of ABG. He stressed that ABG’s donation and collaboration with Galapagos Conservancy would enhance their diagnostic capability. The new equipment will speed up analysis and allow for immediate response to new threats, he said.

Galapagos Conservancy’s Director General, Dr. Washington Tapia emphasized our organizations’ shared commitment to Galapagos conservation, stressing the importance of close collaboration with local authorities and community. This shared responsibility is essential to a sustainable future of the archipelago.

Field equipment, protective gear, and materials aimed at enhancing ABG's laboratory, bolstering biosecurity efforts across the archipelago.
Photo: ©Galapagos Conservancy

Galapagos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site requires constant vigilance. ABG’s work is crucial in mitigating the threats that face this unique archipelago. We continue to work with ABG, thanks to the support of our donors, in order for them and us both, to regulate and control the risk of introducing or spreading exotic species, which could threaten biodiversity, local economies, and the health of residents and tourists.

We are delighted to support and contribute to an institution that is working tirelessly to conserve the Galapagos ecosystems. Our donors’ unwavering support has been integral to our conservation effort. We are grateful.

Ceremony for the equipment handover and reaffirmation of the collaborative commitment between Galápagos Conservancy and the Biosecurity Agency.
Photo: ©Galapagos Conservancy

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