When most people think of the Galapagos Islands, they think of Charles Darwin, exotic animals and tropical vacations. However, while the Galapagos is filled with exciting opportunities that no other place has to offer, its ecosystem is fragile and tourism needs to be balanced with responsible stewardship.

All traditional tourist activities, even on a boat, place demands on the Islands – food production and waste disposal being the most immediate.  In addition to the pressure that new visitors create, birds and other invasive species threaten the habitats of the endemic species of the Galapagos.  Without vigilant upkeep, native plants and animals will die out, extinguishing a uniqueness that should be preserved for all future generations.