You may have read my multi-part post about my recent visit to the Galapagos Islands (pictured from space). I told you about the increasing adverse ecological impacts caused by mass tourism. At a UNESCO World Heritage Committee conference in New Zealand, Ecuador asked that the islands be declared endangered. On Tuesday, the international body listed the islands, home for numerous unique wild species, as endangered. According to UNESCO the number of days spent visiting the islands have increased by 150% over the last 15 years. The increase has fueled inter-island traffic, illegal immigration, and the importation of invasive species. The Charles Darwin Foundation has identified 490 introduced insects and 53 new invertebrate species of which 55 are particularly problematic. Immediate steps must be taken to strictly limit access to the geographically isolated island chain if the unique indigenous wildlife is to survive in tact. Galapagos Islands National Park could loose the prestigious World Heritage status if greater conservation actions are not taken.
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
Hamburgesa en Paradiso Revisted
You may have read my multi-part post about my recent visit to the Galapagos Islands (pictured from space). I told you about the increasing adverse ecological impacts caused by mass tourism. At a UNESCO World Heritage Committee conference in New Zealand, Ecuador asked that the islands be declared endangered. On Tuesday, the international body listed the islands, home for numerous unique wild species, as endangered. According to UNESCO the number of days spent visiting the islands have increased by 150% over the last 15 years. The increase has fueled inter-island traffic, illegal immigration, and the importation of invasive species. The Charles Darwin Foundation has identified 490 introduced insects and 53 new invertebrate species of which 55 are particularly problematic. Immediate steps must be taken to strictly limit access to the geographically isolated island chain if the unique indigenous wildlife is to survive in tact. Galapagos Islands National Park could loose the prestigious World Heritage status if greater conservation actions are not taken.