Galapagos Conservation understands that conservation of the unique biodiversity on the islands requires engagement with the whole community.
Galapagos is home to many local communities that have a valuable resource – a generational, deep understanding of the environment. Su local ecological knowledge proporciona una vision matizada de los ecosistemas y las especies que habitan en las islas, ayudando a los esfuerzos de conservacion.
The Galapagos Conservation team is mostly based in the islands. They not only share a deep commitment to protect this unique place, but they also understand the realities of that area. Galapagos Conservancy is deeply connected with the challenges and opportunities that we face. We’ve developed more sustainable and effective conservation strategies by combining local knowledge with modern scientific approaches.
Conservation collaboration with local communities
Conservation is not something that can be imposed. It must involve those who live in the ecosystems. With around 30,000 residents relying on nature for their livelihoods–whether through tourism, fishing, or agriculture–Galapagos Conservancy promotes a community-centered approach. We encourage sustainable practices by involving the local community in protecting their environment. This benefits both their everyday lives and ecosystems that they depend upon.
Empowering Galapagos for a Sustainable Future
We believe that the first step in creating a conservation culture on Galapagos is to empower its residents. The Sustainability Education Program is a program that works with teachers on the islands to reach over 7,000 students. The program ensures that environmental education is a part of the curriculum for all students in Galapagos. We also support local entrepreneurs by offering grants to encourage community-led, sustainable projects. Thanks to the generosity of our donors since 2021, we’ve funded conservation projects which engage communities in protecting Galapagos ecosystems. This effort demonstrates our commitment to empowerment and sustainable development, showing the tangible impact that working with local communities can have.
A sustainable future is in sight
We are confident that working together and empowering the local communities, we can create a sustainable and prosperous future for Galapagos. We are creating a network of environmental stewards by integrating environmental education and support local entrepreneurs.
As our general director, Dr. Washington Tapia says: “The success and collaboration of the local communities is often crucial to our conservation work on Galapagos.” We can protect the biodiversity of this archipelago by supporting initiatives from the local communities.
This comprehensive approach reinforces local communities’ commitments to protect their environment, and ensures sustainable management of Galapagos natural resources. It benefits both the people and the ecosystems.
