The Galapagos Paradox: Negotiating Conservation and Human Development

Abstract

This research examines how conservation policies shape the living conditions of residents of Santa Cruz, the most populated island of the Galapagos Island in Ecuador. By using a political ecology framework, this research aims to understand how the economic and political factors of conservation policies shape local living conditions. Through a combination of in-depth interviews, observations and informal conversations this research sheds a light on the complex trade-offs between conservation and human development. The creation of the Galapagos reserve resulted in a significant shift in power dynamics, moving authority from locals to foreign organizations and, eventually, the Ecuadorian government. Later on, the government’s economic interest in tourism has driven its expansion alongside conservation. The prioritization of nature conservation and the development of a tourism-friendly island have overshadowed investments in local services and increased competition over resources. The unequal power dynamics intensifies the situation as locals experience unequal distribution of benefits and burdens. Conservation policies contributed to the transformation of traditional livelihoods towards the service sector. Furthermore, policies also shaped human-environmental relations of residents. Local disempowerment and the commodification of nature have resulted in a disconnection towards their surroundings. Another result of the unequal power allocation and conservation policies is the discontent among some residents which results in resistance and non-compliance of some rules. The findings of this research contribute to a broader understanding of the socio- environmental challenges and opportunities in conservation policy implementation, with implications for sustainable development and to create more inclusive development strategies in the Galapagos and similar contexts around the world. Future efforts should stress environmental education, local agency, and collaborative nature-society relations.