Galapagos Conservancy

On the remote slopes of Wolf Volcano on Isabela Island, the endemic Pink Iguana is teetering on the brink of extinction. With an estimated 211 individuals left in the world, urgent conservation action is needed to prevent the permanent extinction of one of the world’s most critically endangered species. In collaboration with the Galápagos National Park Directorate, Galápagos Conservancy is launching a series of field expeditions to gather critical information to guide species recovery. Research suggests that, like tortoises, land Iguanas serve as "ecosystem engineers," modifying the habitat around them in a way that benefits their entire living community. Restoring the species will have a positive effect on the Wolf Volcano ecosystem as a whole.

The nutrient-rich waters of the Galápagos Marine Reserve are an oasis for one of the world’s richest concentrations of ocean biodiversity. Created in 1998 by the Ecuadorian government, the Marine Protected Area is home to nearly 3,000 species of marine wildlife, including sharks, whales, penguins, seals and sealions, seabirds, and marine iguanas. Alongside the Galápagos National Park Directorate, Galápagos Conservancy is leading the fight to safeguard this magical place from invasive species and illegal fishing. We also conduct research to inform biodiversity conservation and to understand the complex interconnected ecosystem of Galápagos land and water.

The Education for Sustainability Program promotes project-based and placed-based educational practices that increase students’ understanding of and connection to Galápagos. In emphasizing the interdependence of society, economy, and nature, we use local to global examples of conservation and sustainability. Our educational approach ultimately prepares students with the critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for young people to contribute to greater sustainability in their communities throughout their lives. The program offers training for every teacher in Galápagos, reaching 7,000 students per year with vital environmental education.

The Women in Sustainable Entrepreneurship (WISE) Program provides critical capital and promotes business education for Galapagueñas. We work closely with awardees as they develop and execute their business ventures, providing operational support where needed to maximize each project’s chance of success. Empowering women to be environmental stewards while prioritizing their business education and economic development will have positive ripples effects throughout the Islands. The WISE Grant Program strives to create a more equitable and sustainable future for Galápagos, funding projects like native plant nurseries, organic gardening research, and environmental art programs.