While a mere 3% of the Galapagos Islands are home to people, our presence in this small fraction of the archipelago has put the native vegetation at risk. Our restoration program in urban and rural areas engages the local community in conservation and restoration efforts to secure the long-term health of these unique ecosystems.

The Charles Darwin Research Station is home to the largest Natural History Collections of endemic, native and introduced species of the Galapagos Islands in Ecuador. It is also one of the largest in the world with over 135,000 specimens from more than 7,500 species.

The Charles Darwin Foundation strengthens academic collaborations in Lausanne and Zurich, Switzerland

Being a volunteer at the Charles Darwin Foundation was one of the most enriching experiences of my life. For two months, I had the privilege of participating in various projects that allowed me to witness firsthand the incredible work being done to protect the natural environment of the Galápagos Islands. From guiding visitors in the Exhibition Hall, collaborating with the Communications and Marketing team, to joining scientists in the field, I experienced a full immersion in the CDF’s conservation efforts.

Being a volunteer at the Charles Darwin Foundation was one of the most enriching experiences of my life. For two months, I had the privilege of participating in various projects that allowed me to witness firsthand the incredible work being done to protect the natural environment of the Galápagos Islands. From guiding visitors in the Exhibition Hall, collaborating with the Communications and Marketing team, to joining scientists in the field, I experienced a full immersion in the CDF’s conservation efforts.

Mangroves in Galapagos provide important habitat for endemic and threatened species, offer essential ecosystem services like carbon sequestration, and support the well-being of local communities through tourism and fisheries. Despite their importance and pristine condition, these mangrove ecosystems and their potential for climate mitigation remain understudied.

Mangroves in Galapagos provide important habitat for endemic and threatened species, offer essential ecosystem services like carbon sequestration, and support the well-being of local communities through tourism and fisheries. Despite their importance and pristine condition, these mangrove ecosystems and their potential for climate mitigation remain understudied.