Symposium
1. Challenges for a sustainable tourism path in the Galapagos National Park from diverse perspectives
Description: Galapagos is a unique ecosystem that is home to a vast array of endemic species. While tourism is a vital part of the local economy and supports several conservation initiatives, they can also have negative impacts on the environment if managed unsustainably. In recent years, there has been a surge in the number of invasive species which is closely linked to the increasing number of tourists, the growing resident population, and the imported cargo necessary to sustain these. This has raised concerns about the impact of tourism on the islands' delicate ecosystems, and the long-term sustainability of a tourism-dependent economy within the islands. The aim of the Symposia is to approach from different stakeholders and perspectives the current trends of tourism in the islands and its implication in the management and conservation of the Galapagos National Park. We discuss the visitors’ perceptions and sentiment analysis (residents and tourists) at two beaches within the protected area, near the populated centers as well as the ongoing imaginaries and profiles of the tourists coming to Galapagos with the evaluation of the genuine ecotourism profile. To evaluate visitors and tourists’ perceptions, surveys were applied. We analyze the resident’s perception and attitudes in relation with tourism, especially the shared recreation spaces between tourists and residents, where some environmental conflicts may occur. A mixed methodology (surveys and semi-structured interviews) was used. Finally, we discuss the narratives and discourses (qualitative analysis) of the tourism model by the different stakeholders of Galapagos, regarding the limits of the tourism growth trend and its implication in the development of local communities and the conservation of this World Heritage site.
Name of organizer and Affiliation: Andrea Muñoz Barriga; María José Barragán- Charles Darwin Foundation/ Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador
Language: English
Duration of the activity: 2 hours
Number of participants: Open for all people interested in the topic.
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2. Women Who Change the World: Innovation and Leadership in Conservation
Description: The symposium "Women Who Change the World: Innovation and Leadership in Conservation" aims to highlight the essential role of women in protecting biodiversity and the environment. Throughout history, women have been leaders in conservation, contributing their knowledge and dedication. The event will explore various facets of female participation in conservation, from their contributions to science and research to their leadership in local communities and global movements. Specific challenges they face, such as gender discrimination, unequal access to resources, and lack of representation in decision-making, will be discussed. The symposium will include discussion panels, research presentations, interactive workshops, and testimonials, creating a space to share experiences, best practices, and innovative strategies to promote gender equality and female empowerment in conservation. Topics will include the role of Indigenous and rural women in sustainable resource management, the impact of climate change on women-led communities, and the importance of education and training to encourage female participation. Additionally, the work of leading women in conservation will be highlighted, providing them with a platform to share their stories, challenges, and lessons learned. Networking and collaboration among conservationists, academics, activists, and professionals from various locations will be encouraged. The symposium aims to promote positive change towards greater inclusion, equity, and diversity in the conservation movement, recognizing the valuable contributions of women and promoting their leadership to build a more sustainable and resilient future for the planet.
Name of organizer and Affiliation: María del Carmen Vizcaíno Barba- Alianza Jambato
Language: Spanish
Duration of the activity: 2 hours
Number of participants: 50
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3. Ecology, Automatic Detection, and Artificial Intelligence for Conservation
Descripticon: This symposium brings together experiences in the application of automatic detection technologies (camera traps, recorders, infrared image processing, etc.) and large-scale data processing (big data) using artificial intelligence to measure conservation outcomes. These include high-priority ecosystems for conservation, such as the Chocó forests, the piedmont forests of El Oro, and the Galápagos Islands. The studies presented explore questions related to resilience, restoration, threat management, eradication of invasive species, and methodological proposals for analysis. The aim is to exchange learnings and promote the development of pragmatic methods to measure conservation outcomes that guide decision-making.
Name of organizer and Affiliation: David Parra Puente, Pablo Sánchez - Fundación de Conservación Jocotoco
Language: Spanish
Duration of the activity: 2 hours
Number of participants: 80
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