Cover photo credit: Oliver Clarke
At Ecoventura, sustainability isn’t just a mission – it’s at the heart of who we are. In 2024, we took meaningful steps to safeguard the fragile beauty of the Galapagos Islands, a place we’re privileged to call home. From conservation milestones to hands-on projects, our efforts this year reflect not only our deep responsibility to preserve this one-of-a-kind ecosystem but also the unwavering commitment we feel to ensure its beauty and biodiversity thrive for generations to come. Join us as we reflect on the highlights of a year dedicated to making a difference:
Bright Ideas in Travel 2024 Recognition
Ecoventura is honored to be chosen for Condé Nast Traveler’s Bright Ideas in Travel list for our innovative sustainability initiatives. Among these efforts are the creation and operation of the Galapagos’ first dedicated recycling center on San Cristóbal, which launched in 2022, and leading the forest restoration project on Santa Cruz Island.
To be considered for the 2024 list, the Bright Idea must have been implemented this year and made a positive contribution with clear impact on the travel industry right now.
The Bright Ideas in Travel list recognizes the players, places, and projects addressing travel’s most urgent issues with thoughtfulness and dedication. This year, Condé Nast Traveler editors selected trailblazers who have made a tangible, positive impact on the travel industry in 2024 or reached a significant milestone in their ongoing efforts to demonstrate how travel can move the world forward.
Opening a new recycling center in San Cristobal Island
In 2022, we introduced two state-of-the-art recycling machines to improve waste management in the Galapagos. Developed in partnership with Avianca Airlines, this initiative is designed to prevent approximately 9,000 kilograms of material from being sent to local landfills each year.
One machine compacts plastic, cardboard, and paper for efficient transport, while the other crushes glass into a fine, powder-like substance, reducing its volume.
By utilizing Avianca’s existing flights between the Galapagos and mainland Ecuador, this program ensures no additional carbon emissions are generated during transportation. By enabling the processing of materials for transport to recycling centers on the mainland, we take immense pride in declaring that none of the waste produced on our yachts will end up in island landfills.
As of December 2024, a total of 6,870 kg of materials have been removed from the Galapagos, reflecting the tangible impact of this initiative.
Reforestation project in the Galapagos Highlands
This year, we launched a reforestation project to help restore the highlands of the Galapagos. Guests aboard both our itineraries took part in planting native trees at Rancho Primicias and Rancho El Chato, alternating weekly. To date, we’ve successfully planted over 900 native trees, fostering environmental restoration and allowing guests to contribute meaningfully to preserving these islands’ delicate ecosystems.
Our reforestation initiative continues to grow with an ambitious goal: to plant 1,100 native trees between June 2024 and June 2025, creating a lasting impact on the future of the Galapagos.
Photo credit: Brooke Pyke
Seven Years Partnership with the Charles Darwin Foundation
Since 2017, Ecoventura has proudly contributed nearly $635,000 to the Charles Darwin Foundation through the Galapagos Biodiversity and Education for Sustainability Fund (GBESF). This ongoing partnership supports ongoing conservation efforts including shark protection, sea turtle research, and the reintroduction of extinct landbirds on Floreana Island. The funds play a vital role in supporting scientists, scholars, students, and fellows working to advance conservation and sustainability effort in the Galapagos Islands.
This year’s expedition raised funds through the Gordon and Betty Moore foundation, and the fund has secured over 2 million in pledged gifts before and during the cruise. Since 2021, the GBESF has provided scholarships to local students pursuing academic fields related to sustainability. These scholarships not only fund university education but also create opportunities for students to volunteer with the Charles Darwin Foundation, allowing them to apply their skills to real-world conservation projects. In a tribute to Ecoventura, the CDF published the Ecoventura CDF Impact Report 2024 showcasing the various projects over the past seven years. It is notable that projects we spearheaded resulted in further funding and development.
Together, these initiatives reflect our unwavering commitment to protecting the Galapagos’ unique biodiversity and inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards.
Commemorating World Ocean Day with Relais & Châteaux
In June, we proudly joined the global movement for ocean conservation alongside Relais & Châteaux and Ethic Ocean. Under this year’s inspiring theme, “Awaken New Depths,” we embraced the opportunity to promote sustainable seafood practices and celebrate the rich flavors of the Galapagos Islands. Chef Cristhian Murrieta took center stage, crafting a thoughtful tasting menu made with 85% locally sourced ingredients. We’re particularly proud of our long-standing commitment to sustainability, including eliminating single-use plastics from our fleet back in 2017—an initiative that continues to make a positive impact on the islands.
Guests were treated to a culinary experience that not only delighted the senses but also underscored the importance of protecting our oceans and aquatic ecosystems. By highlighting mindful dining and the value of sustainable sourcing, we reinforced the powerful connection between food, culture, and conservation.
Photo credit: Brooke Pyke
The unique beauty and fragile ecosystems of the Galapagos inspire us to be better every day, driving us to continuously evolve our practices in ways that protect this exceptional corner of the world.
At Ecoventura, sustainability is not just a priority—it’s woven into our very essence. It shapes everything we do, from the way we operate our fleet to the experiences we offer our guests. By traveling with us, you become part of this ongoing effort to protect and celebrate the Galapagos, ensuring its incredible biodiversity endures for generations to come.
Join Ecoventura and discover how your journey can contribute to protecting the Galapagos… one voyage at a time.
