Analysis of the Management of Protected Areas in Galapagos: 60 Years after Its Declaration as a National Park

María Maestro, María Luisa Pérez-Cayeiro, Harry Reyes and Juan Adolfo Chica-Ruiz ()
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María Maestro: Faculty of Ocean and Environmental Sciences, University of Cadiz, Avda. República Saharaui s/n, 11510 Puerto Real, Cadiz, Spain
María Luisa Pérez-Cayeiro: Institute of Marine Research (INMAR), University of Cadiz, Avda. República Saharaui s/n, 11510 Puerto Real, Cadiz, Spain
Harry Reyes: Galápagos National Park Directorate, Av. Charles Darwin s/n, Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz, Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
Juan Adolfo Chica-Ruiz: Institute of Marine Research (INMAR), University of Cadiz, Avda. República Saharaui s/n, 11510 Puerto Real, Cadiz, Spain

Sustainability, 2024, vol. 16, issue 15, 1-20

Abstract: The Galapagos Islands are one of the most emblematic protected areas on the planet and also one of the most studied. Their main economic activity is tourism, which has grown rapidly in recent years. The increase in tourists is associated with the increase in population and the introduction of invasive species, which puts conservation at risk. This makes adequate management even more necessary and relevant on an international scale since the economy of Galapagos depends on the good state of conservation of its ecosystems and species. Numerous studies have shown that social factors, rather than physical–natural ones, determine the success or failure of a marine protected area (MPA), so they must be urgently incorporated into all phases of MPA management. In this study, we analyzed the management of the protected areas of Galapagos, including the National Park and the Marine Reserve, with the purpose of highlighting their weaknesses and strengths. The methodology used presents five prescribed scenarios in which priority is given to one or other factors, each of which has an impact on the biophysical and socio-economic systems that are influenced by the MPA. These scenarios were called proactive, interactive, centralized, learning, and formal management. Data were obtained through a comprehensive literature review and primary data collection methods, including in-depth interviews with key stakeholders and DPNG managers, as well as direct observations. Interviewees covered the main relevant sectors in the archipelago (fishing, tourism, and conservation). The results show that the archipelago’s protected areas follow a proactive management model with a continuous feedback loop. This feedback is a key element in any adaptive management process, which also allows practitioners to anticipate future problems. Both public participation and strategic planning are essential.

Keywords: assessment; Galapagos; management; marine protected areas; socio-ecosystem (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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