The Extension of Galapagos Protected Waters

Environmentalists hope that safeguarding the migratory pathways around Galapagos Islands will benefit the species that ply this route, including whales, sharks, and sea turtles. Parts of the new marine protected area are no-take zones that completely prohibit fishing, while some parts are designated as no-longline-fishing zones to help prevent longlines from entering the existing reserve.

The extension of Galapagos’ protected waters is the first step in a multinational plan to push for greater protection within the Cocos-Galápagos Swimway, which will allow for safer passage of migratory species in the area. Neighboring countries Ecuador, Costa Rica, Panama, and Colombia are all part of the protection and conservation efforts in this common corridor.

The 15,000-square mile protected area is located in the northern Galapagos Islands and is home to the highest number of sharks in the world, often numbering in the thousands. The hammerheads, reef sharks, and whale sharks that patrol these waters complement an array of other marine life that make these volcanic islands a global capital of biodiversity.

In fact, a recent study done by the Charles Darwin Research Station and National Geographic found that the average fish biomass is 17.5 tons per hectare, more than doubling the runner up (Cocos Island National Park in Costa Rica).

Every year, visitors to this World Heritage Site are astounded by how well these islands and their unique endemic wildlife are conserved, thanks largely to very strict laws and the efforts of the National Park’s tireless work.

Nearly 100 percent of the landmasses in the Galapagos are protected by the National Park, and commercial development is extremely limited. The recent legislation will help protect the marine life in the area in the northern outskirts of the Galapagos Marine Reserve.

Recent efforts for marine protection

This latest development isn’t the only significant expansion of the Galapagos Marine Reserve in recent years.

In 2016, a new sanctuary was established as part of the reserve. In response to high levels of legal and illegal fishing operations and other resource exploitation, Ecuadorian president Rafael Correa signed an executive order to designate the area surrounding Wolf and Darwin Islands as a protected area. The designation of 21 smaller conservation areas across the archipelago was also part of the expansion.

Approximately 38,850 square kilometers (15,000 square miles), this recently protected area is home to the highest number of sharks in the world, often numbering in the thousands. Hammerheads, reef sharks, and whale sharks patrol these waters, complementing an array of other marine life that make these volcanic islands a global capital for biodiversity.

Although the newly sanctioned marine region was already a part of the Marine Reserve, the new restrictions will prohibit fishing, which is allowed on a small scale in the rest of the Galapagos waters to sustain local businesses. The new sanctuary zone will be strictly limited to scientific and tourist use.

This expansion was passed with the support of the Ministry of the Environment and the Ministry of Tourism. National Geographic has also supported this mission, pledging to compensate those who used to fish in this area and offering an incentive to travelers who elect eco-friendlier Galapagos vacations.

Protecting rich biodiversity

The Galapagos Marine Reserve was established in 1998 as part of conservation efforts to protect the rich marine ecosystem of the Galapagos Islands. After all, the archipelago boasts one of the most biologically diverse waters in the world. It is a marine paradise home to a dazzling array of permanent and migratory species, including whales, dolphins, fur seals, sea turtles, rays, and tropical fishes in all shapes and sizes. Nearly 20% of the marine life in the Galapagos is endemic, highlighting the importance of conservation in these Pacific islands.

Every year, visitors to this World Heritage Site are astounded by how well these islands and their unique endemic wildlife are conserved, largely thanks to very strict laws and the National Park’s tireless work.

Nearly all of the landmasses in the Galapagos are protected by the National Park, and commercial development is extremely limited. Recent legislations and expansions will help protect the marine life in the archipelago, especially migratory species like whales and sharks.

Ecuador’s commitment to the environment

A fascinating 2016 study by National Geographic’s Pristine Seas Project found that on average a live shark has a value of $5.4 million over its lifetime, contributing to the Galapagos’ $186 million annual earnings from tourism and diving. On the contrary, a dead shark will only earn $200 for the fisherman. The analysis clearly underlines the importance of protecting this region, not only as an environmental gem, but also as an economic engine for this developing South American nation.

During the 2021 United Nations Climate Change Conference in Glasgow, President Lasso stressed the importance of protecting the environment.

“Once more, Ecuador it’s a pioneering force in environmental protection both in Latin America and worldwide,” he said. “Today is a day that will remain in history for us, Ecuador, Galapagos and the world. We are not only preserving the future of our country but the entire humanity.”