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New Era Galapagos Foundation
About Us |
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History
Several years ago, the idea arose of involving the resident population of the Galapagos Islands in cultural and environmental activities in order to generate a more sustainable development of the Islands and their people. Despite years of investment from both national and international institutions into the conservation of the natural resources of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, human development efforts have lagged behind. United by the motto 'Education for a Better Conservation', a group of enthusiastic residents and, overtime, international volunteers, developed a series of educational programs aimed at educating residents about the importance of conserving their natural environment, and thereby guaranteeing a more sustainable economic future for themselves and generations to come. Initially, the focus of these efforts concentrated on children, but initial success has allowed us to include the adult population independently, and in conjunction with their respective children's participation. Over the last five years, the individuals responsible for the aforementioned work on behalf of the Galapagos Islands and the community of San Cristobal have gained the approval and support of the local population. And, in the year 2000, after several years of 'unofficial work', they gained recognition as a legal, non-profit Foundation according to the Republic of Ecuador. Philosophy
Our philosophy of community outreach and education blends ecological and conservation themes into all of our programs, allowing our art students to learn about the native flora and fauna of Galapagos through painting, or foreign language students to familiarize themselves with marine conservation through English lessons. Currently, we offer three programs: Art, Foreign Languages, and Environmental Education; to accompany a special program of local conservation activities that involve the direct participation of the local community in the cleanup of the town of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, its beaches, and other natural settings. We believe that the most effective, long-term solution to the economic, social, and ecological problems facing San Cristobal and the other Galapagos Islands is through working to educate its youth about their Islands, and the importance of conservation, while actively promoting their participation in the conservation process. |
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Fundacion Nueva Era Galapagos |
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