A Renewed Collaboration
In a simple but moving ceremony, Danny Rueda and Washington Tapia signed the agreement to renew cooperation and reaffirmed the commitment to pooling resources and efforts to ensure conservation and sustainability in Galapagos. Tapia said that the renewal of this agreement signifies our commitment to protect this natural treasure for the benefit of local communities and humanity as a whole.
Iniciativa Galapagos (The Galapagos Initiative)
Our cooperation revolves around the program Iniciativa Galapagos. This is a massive research and conservation project between Galapagos Conservancy, and the Galapagos National Park Directorate. It reflects our commitment to ecosystem restoration and recovery of endangered species. Iniciativa Galapagos is based on a solid foundation of knowledge, conservation and adaptive management.
The renewed agreement will allow us to continue with this initiative, as well as other vital efforts. We can use science to guide the recovery and restoration of species that are essential to Galapagos ecosystems.
With the renewal of their agreement, Galápagos Conservancy and the Galápagos National Park Directorate can continue to lead Iniciativa Galápagos, a joint program based on scientific knowledge and adaptive management. ©Galápagos Conservancy
A Foundation of Trust and Support
Our agreement renewal with the Galapagos National Park Directorate does not just represent a formality, but is a sign of the mutual trust which has developed over the years of collaboration. Our environmental authority shares our trust in our commitment to Galapagos. We share this trust with our generous donors as their support allows us to carry out conservation actions that will protect the unique ecosystems on the Galapagos Archipelago over the long-term.
Tapia, who is optimistic about the future, says that we must continue to be dedicated to science, conservation and adaptive management to ensure the survival of this unique corner of the globe. He said, “We are excited by what we can accomplish together in the future with your support and renewed commitment.”
The Galapagos National Park Directorate has placed a lot of trust in us, and this is what drives us to work unreservedly with Galapagos. We also value the continued support from our donors who are the engines that drive the progress of these vital conservation efforts. The Galapagos Archipelago is a benchmark for conservation around the world thanks to your support. Together, let’s continue to protect the natural treasures for future generations. Let’s write an historic chapter on Galapagos conservation.
Park ranger Marcelo Gavilanes (L) and our Director of Conservation, Dr. Jorge Carrión, conduct
ecological monitoring of critically endangered pink iguanas as part of Iniciativa Galápagos. ©Galápagos Conservancy
Expedition Challenges and Aims
From September 11 to 21, this team of dedicated conservation champions undertook a challenging journey to Wolf Volcano. They grappled with rocky terrains under intense sun and light drizzle that caused temperature fluctuations throughout their trek. This endeavor is part of the conservation activities undertaken by Galapagos Conservancy and the Galapagos National Park Directorate through the Iniciativa Galapagos program.
The expedition had the following objectives:
- Close observation of pink iguanas and giant tortoises.
- The deployment of advanced technology to enhance ecosystem research.
- The search for tortoises carrying genes from Pinta Island species.
Among other activities, the team prioritized monitoring the elusive and critically endangered pink iguanas. They also expanded the network of camera traps on the volcano. These cameras will play a pivotal role in observing wildlife in their natural habitat. Additionally, the team installed rain gauges to collect precipitation data and gain insights into the volcano’s climatic patterns.
A Notable Discovery at Wolf Volcano
One of the expedition’s highlights was the discovery of a female tortoise bearing similarities to the species from Pinta Island, home of the renowned Lonesome George, the last tortoise of his kind, who passed away in 2012. While tortoises with a high genetic makeup of this species were identified in 2012, subsequent searches did not reveal any more individuals. This finding, although not entirely new, is especially significant given the belief that the genetic lineage of Pinta tortoises was vanishing. The found specimen was fitted with a satellite tracking device, allowing our scientists to monitor its movements and gather crucial information for future conservation efforts.
Dr. Jorge Carrion, our Director of Conservation, underscored the significance of ongoing support for these endeavors: “Conservation is a collective effort. Every discovery, every new piece of information, brings us closer to ensuring a sustainable future for Galapagos. However, we cannot do it alone; it is vital that we all do our part.”
Dedicated members of Galápagos Conservancy gather data from a giant tortoise during the expedition. Every measurement brings us closer to understanding and protecting these iconic creatures. ©Galápagos Conservancy
Analysis and Projections Following the Expedition
“Many might think that the end of an expedition is the end of our efforts, but in reality, the on-site work is just the beginning. What follows is intense, meticulous analysis and interpretation of the collected data, which can take even longer than the expedition itself,” commented Carrion. This is where science leaps into action to understand and protect our natural heritage.
Currently, scientists and conservation officers from Galapagos Conservancy are deeply engaged in recording and thoroughly analyzing the data collected during the expedition. After completing this detailed study phase, plans are in place to publish the findings. These insights will be crucial in outlining management recommendations and conservation measures to propose to the environmental authority, which will ensure ongoing protection for these species and their habitats in the archipelago.
Why These Expeditions Matter
Expeditions and the subsequent analyses are not merely scientific endeavors; they represent the lifeblood of ongoing efforts to conserve and amplify Galapagos’ unique legacy. This archipelago not only shelters natural wonders that have enthralled scientists and visitors for generations but has also become a global emblem of biodiversity. However, its beauty and uniqueness face constant threats, making every study, discovery, and conservation action a step closer to a protected and sustainable Galapagos.
As Carrion explained, “Every expedition offers us a unique opportunity to better understand the dynamics of these special ecosystems and reaffirm our commitment to their conservation.”
It is paramount that we, as stewards of this planet and its natural treasures, recognize the importance of supporting these efforts. Only then can we ensure that the natural heritage of Galapagos not only endures but thrives, igniting the passion and wonder of countless visitors eager to experience its unmatched beauty.
Adrián Cueva, committed to Galápagos conservation, delves into his
research of critically endangered pink iguanas. ©Galápagos Conservancy
Elevating local women
Belen Vasquez of San Cristobal, who lives in Galapagos Conservancy, was able to bring her artistic ceramic creations into reality thanks to the Women in Sustainable Entrepreneurship grants. She was able to purchase premium clays and vibrant glazes for her ceramic workshop with the funds she received through the WISE grant. Her purchase of a ceramics kiln was even more important, as it represented not only the realization of her dream but also a major leap in her artistic endeavor.
Take the Pledge for Sustainability
TEMPORAL’s commitment to sustainability is a unique feature in an area that has a limited supply of ceramics and potteries. Each ceramic item is a unique, eco-friendly souvenir, made from earth and free of pollution.
Environmental Stewardship
Belen and her team are responsible for collecting plastic waste from beaches, which they then sort and recycle into souvenirs. These upcycled creations are not only a treasured memory of a Galapagos trip, but they also contain a piece of plastic waste that unfortunately drifts onto these pristine beaches from all over the world.
TEMPORAL’s Legacy
The impact of TEMPORAL on the community has a profound ripple effect. In order to fulfill its social responsibility, a part of the ceramic sales proceeds is used to sponsor art classes for children who are less fortunate on the island. This nurtures their artistic potential, and shapes the future cultural tapestry in San Cristobal.
We are proud of Belen’s efforts, which encourage individual artistic expression and highlight the urgent need to protect the Galapagos Islands. TEMPORAL is a powerful example of how art and sustainability can be combined to transform local communities and ecosystems. Do you want to be part of this mission to find sustainable ways to express yourself and your creativity? No matter how small the action is, it can make our planet greener.
Mayra Hernandez, a Galapagos native who is passionate about the island’s culture and environment, has led an initiative called “More Art, Less Garbage” that aims to make a positive difference. Mayra Hernandez’s initiative is aimed at inspiring the community to keep a cleaner environment. She encourages people to reconsider daily habits that produce waste.
She organized 14 workshops for 250 children on Santa Cruz Island. These workshops taught them how to transform plastic waste into toys and art. Mayra wants to spread “More Art, Less Garbage” to community colleges and schools, so that parents can be reached through their children. She hopes that by doing this, she can raise awareness of the damaging effects of plastic waste on Galapagos.
Mirian Silva, a Galapagos resident, is another WISE grant winner for her “Native Gardens”, which focuses on the conservation of native and endemic plants on Santa Cruz Island. She also aims to protect the iconic flora of Galapagos by reforesting areas in schools. Galapagos Conservancy is supporting projects like Mirian’s in order to ensure the sustainability of Galapagos.
They still face a variety of challenges despite their critical contributions and those of other female conservationists on Galapagos. Women are underrepresented in conservation leadership positions, which limits their ability to shape policy and influence decisions. Women in conservation can also be exposed to gender-based harassment and violence, which creates an unsafe environment.
Galapagos Conservancy’s WISE grant program and the achievements of female leaders on the island serve as powerful reminders of the important role women play in conservation. We can build a sustainable and equitable future for our planet by recognizing the contributions made by women in this area.
Mayra Hernández and her students ©Galápagos Conservancy
SER has led the way in ecological restoration over nearly 30 years, connecting more than 4,000 members around the world and championing effective practices and policies. The conference this year was no different, as around 1,000 academics, professionals, and scientists gathered in person for first time since 2019. They discussed the urgent imperatives of eco-system restoration.
Highlight of the event was Tapia’s presentation entitled “Rewilding Giant Tortoises : Engineering Plant Communities on the Galapagos Islands,” in which she explored the essential role giant tortoises play in revitalizing island ecosystems. Dr. Tapia stressed the importance of reintroducing giant animals, such as Galapagos tortoises. He also showed how their presence can revitalize entire plant ecosystems.
Tapia shared his insights about how the resurgence in giant tortoise population has affected plant communities at various scales. He noted that the resultant increase in herbaceous and decline in wooden plants. He called this phenomenon a “cascade” effect, where a single shift, such as the tortoises eating only certain plants, causes ripples in the ecosystem. The presence of the tortoises on the island has a domino effect, bringing about benefits for all the diverse species.
Tapia’s presentation raised the profile of Galapagos Islands and Ecuador internationally, but also highlighted a holistic approach to nature. He stressed the intrinsic value each species has as a contributor towards ecosystem health and resilience. Reintegration of giant tortoises and other megafauna is a testament of the Galapagos Conservancy’s collaborative efforts with the Galapagos National Park Directorate. This sets a benchmark for comprehensive island rehabilitation.
Events such as SER2023 highlight the importance of a collaborative, interdisciplinary approach to addressing the ecological challenges facing the 21st Century. Washington Tapia is leading the way to a more sustainable and greener future.
Dr. Washington Tapia, General Director of Galápagos Conservancy, attends
the 10th World Conference on Ecological Restoration (SER2023). Dr. Tapia
was one of the scientist guest speakers at the event. ©Galápagos Conservancy
Beach pollution is a major issue that affects both local economies and wildlife on all islands. Recently, 65 students collected 575 pounds worth of plastic from four beaches on the archipelago. The students’ success in cleaning the beaches was not just a great conservation feat, but also an inspiration for us all.
Galapagos youth also help their homeland by participating in marine conservation practices. Galapagos National Park gave 65 students an opportunity to learn and train about marine environments. Students are involved in a variety of activities that are vital for marine conservation. These include monitoring and tagging young sharks, and restoring corals.
The next generation of Galapagos Conservationists has already made a significant impact on the island. Galapagos National Park is the Galapagos Conservancy’s main partner in conservation. These remarkable opportunities for Galapagos youth would not have been possible without them. We are proud to support this Park’s efforts to inspire the next generation of conservationists.
Students participating in beach clean-ups on Santa Cruz Island ©Galápagos National Park