Climate Change: The New Evolutionary Challenge for the Galapagos

Life in the Galapagos Islands is at risk because of climate change. Extreme weather events, warming lands and ocean, and sea level rise threaten the archipelago’s farming and fishing communities, as well as its rich marine and terrestrial ecosystems. Furthermore, energy generation in the Galapagos heavily relies on imported fossil fuels and inefficient power grids, increasing the carbon footprint in its agriculture, fisheries, and tourism sectors.

To help establish a sustainable and self-sufficient island system, this project aims to strengthen local communities through the rehabilitation of ecosystems and the promotion of climate-smart agriculture and tourism practices. This project will also assist the establishment of the Conolophus local power plant and de-risk investments for decentralised renewable energy sources, reducing overall energy dependence on imported diesel.

To maintain climate resilience and low emission measures, the project will also mainstream climate change in regulatory frameworks and planning instruments, including the establishment of an ecotourism certification scheme and educational curricula for climate knowledge among local citizens.