Since 2017, Ecoventura has proudly collaborated with the Charles Darwin Foundation (CDF) through the Galapagos Biodiversity and Education for Sustainability Fund (GBESF). Established on July 31, 2017, this fund embodies the shared commitment of Ecoventura, the Galapagos National Park, and CDF to protect the rich biodiversity of the Galapagos Islands. As an environmentally responsible, family-operated company based in Ecuador, Ecoventura is dedicated to supporting conservation efforts and has provided $476,872.00 to the GBESF to date.
Shark Conservation in the Galapagos Marine Reserve
One of the key projects funded by the GBESF is the CDF’s Shark Ecology and Conservation Program. This initiative focuses on understanding shark movements within and beyond the Galapagos Marine Reserve to protect them from illegal fishing. Notably, the program tagged and monitored 15 pregnant scalloped hammerhead sharks, including one named Cassiopeia, who provided crucial data on shark migratory routes. These efforts are vital for creating effective conservation strategies and highlight the importance of regional cooperation in shark protection.
Reintroduction of extinct landbirds in Floreana Island
The Floreana Ecological Restoration Project is an ambitious initiative aiming to reintroduce species considered extinct on the island, including six species of small landbirds. The GBESF supports CDF’s Landbird Conservation Program, which focuses on ensuring the health of these birds before reintroduction. Efforts include collecting over 400 samples to analyze infectious agents and treating nest materials with bird-friendly insecticides to combat the invasive Avian Vampire Fly.
Studying Sea Turtles
The COVID-19 pandemic provided a unique opportunity to study the impact of reduced human activity on sea turtles in Tortuga Bay. The CDF’s Sea Turtle Conservation Program, funded by GBESF, utilized drone surveys to observe changes in sea turtle distribution and behavior. Findings showed that sea turtles ventured closer to the beach and were more widely distributed in the absence of human activity. This research is crucial for assessing the potential impacts of tourism on sea turtle populations and for developing strategies to mitigate these effects.
Deep-Ocean Exploration
Since 2018, Ecoventura has supported CDF’s Deep-Ocean Exploration in the Galapagos Marine Reserve, a program aimed at uncovering the mysteries of largely unexplored deep-ocean ecosystems that face numerous threats. In 2018, researchers discovered a thriving kelp forest near Santa Cruz Island. The recently confirmed macroalgae, Eisenia Galapagensis, is a rare and endangered deep-water kelp endemic to the Galapagos. First documented by CDF and the Moss Landing Marine Lab in 2006 and recorded by Dr. Sylvia Earle in the 1990s, it is primarily found in the cold, nutrient-rich waters of the archipelago’s western region. Ecoventura also facilitated exploration that helped secure significant funding, including a $7 million grant from the Bezos Earth Fund and the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation.
Ecoventura’s support has established CDF as a leader in deep-sea exploration in the Eastern Tropical Pacific, ensuring substantial funding for ongoing research.
Educational camps to strengthen local commitment to conservation
The GBESF also emphasizes education, funding projects like educational camps.
The ECOS Foundation and Scalesia Foundation, with financial backing from the GBESF, have established a 2,100-square-meter campsite on Santa Cruz Island. This initiative aims to enhance outdoor experiential learning for local children and teenagers, immersing them in the unique environment of the Galapagos.
Before starting activities with students, teachers underwent training in innovative methodologies and essential knowledge to effectively lead on-site programs. As a result, educational camps now offer 4-5 day immersive experiences, featuring activities focused on Galapagos ecology, invasive species prevention, youth leadership development, and other crucial topics.
This project, funded by the GBESF, has reached seven educational institutions, benefiting a total of 94 students.
Scholarships for Local Students
Since 2021, the GBESF has awarded scholarships to local students excelling in academic fields related to sustainability. These scholarships not only support university studies but also offer opportunities for recipients to volunteer at CDF, applying their knowledge to real-world conservation efforts. Additionally, five local students have received these scholarships, supporting their education and fostering a new generation of conservationists.
Celebrating milestones and looking ahead
As the Charles Darwin Foundation recently celebrated its 65th anniversary, Ecoventura remains committed to supporting its vital work. The next donor cruise, set for December 1-8, 2024, aims to continue our support for the GBESF, commemorating past successes and looking forward to future conservation achievements. Through ongoing support and collaboration, Ecoventura and CDF ensure the Galapagos Islands remain a haven for biodiversity for generations to come.
For us, it is important to show our travelers the impact you create through your journeys with Ecoventura. Therefore, we invite you to explore the Impact Report 2024 prepared in collaboration with the Charles Darwin Foundation, to learn more about our shared legacy and achievements.
