Conservando Galápagos: a bold new step by the local community to protect Galápagos

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City Symbol Award to Dr. Paul Salaman

The Mayor of Santa Cruz, Ángel Yánez, awarded the "City Symbol" to Dr. Paul Salaman in recognition of his of his work and leadership as President of Galápagos Conservancy. This award given by the Municipality to outstanding individuals. © Galápagos Conservancy

With the support of dozens non-governmental organizations, the Galapagos National Park Directorate has been protecting the Galapagos’ terrestrial and marine ecosystems for many decades. After a thorough review of the organizations that operate in the Islands, it was clear that many of them were international foundations and very few were local. We felt it was necessary to support the efforts of local people capable of leading conservation actions within the Archipelago.

It is a proud moment for Galapagos conservation. Galapagos Conservancy created a new local affiliate in Ecuador on February 17, 2022: Conservando Galapagos.

Conservando Galapagos, a 100% Galapagueno-run organization, is made up of a skilled technical team of dedicated conservationists. The foundation will work in partnership with the Galapagos National Park and local conservation organizations to preserve, protect and restore wildlife and ecosystems. This will ensure a sustainable future for residents of Galapagos.

Galapagos Conservancy plans to invest $20 million in the next five-years to support conservation priorities identified by Conservando Galapagos. Conservando Galapagos’ highly skilled team will supervise grants and offer technical assistance to grantees. This agreement will allow Galapagos Conservancy members to donate more effectively for conservation work on the ground.

It is an honor to be the General Director of Conservando Galapagos, and to collaborate directly with Galapagos Conservancy’s President, Dr. Paul Salaman.

Local people have always had the power to decide the fate of many species that call Galapagos home. Conservado Galapagos is a significant milestone, as its team of experienced local people are committed to protecting their natural heritage. Galapagos Conservancy proudly supports its creation and will cover its long-term operational costs so that the team can save as much of their fauna and flora as possible.

Galapagos Conservancy is laser-focused on the best interests of the Galapagos Archipelago’s wildlife and its people. The Galapagos Conservancy Board of Directors and staff firmly believe that Galapaguenos should be empowered and trusted to take conservation action in their own communities. Conservando Galapagos is officially inaugurated at Santa Cruz Island, September 9, 2022.

This is the start of a new era for conservation in Galapagos.

Galapagos Conservancy and Conservando Galapagos Team

Galápagos Conservancy and Conservando Galápagos Team © Galápagos Conservancy