Sustainability in the Galápagos: Fostering Conservation Through Generations
Resident and naturalist Javier Chacón recalls childhood in the Galápagos Islands as “nature and you and nothing more than that.” Stunningly, this magical place has remained that way due to the tireless efforts of dedicated conservationists.
The Galápagos Islands are home to one of the most important marine reserves on the planet, formally protected by law since 1998. In January 2022, the president of Ecuador announced an exciting 50 percent expansion of the reserve, which is expected to protect 40 percent of the world’s marine species.
Conservation is in the DNA of these islands, which are home to incredible endemic species found nowhere else on earth, like marine iguanas — along with generations of humans who intend to keep it that way. Naturalist and guide Jeffo Márquez was born on the islands to researchers at the Charles Darwin Research Station and carries on their legacy of education and preservation.
According to Márquez, one of the best ways to teach visitors about conservation and sustainability is to expose them to the spectacular nature of the Galápagos, and how better to do that than to literally dive in? Deep-water snorkeling is just one of many immersive ways to discover the islands. While world-class snorkeling sites abound here, spots favored by those in the know might include sea lions, sea turtles, and penguins in a single swim; not to mention thousands of fish and a catalogue of eye-catching coral.
While Charles Darwin’s research first highlighted the importance of the Galápagos more than 160 years ago, it remains one of the most influential destinations in understanding animal behavior. Keeping such a significant place relatively untouched might seem like an overwhelming task, until we’re reminded of local wisdom. “Major changes start with simple things,” Chacón pronounces. Sustainable choices, like reducing our use of plastics, makes a difference. It starts with a single step, but it also ends there too. The unofficial adage of the Galápagos reminds us of our impact: Take only memories and leave only footprints.
