The Galápagos Perspective: Concerns about life on the Galápagos Islands from the perspective of residents of San Cristóbal

Abstract

The Galápagos Islands are known for their unique flora and fauna. These flora and fauna are what attract almost 200,000 tourists to the islands annually; as a result, tourism is the main economic force on the islands. It is important to remember that the Galápagos Islands have a population of 25,000 residents living on five islands. Through 97 surveys and interviews, this study peers into the life of the Galapagueños on San Cristóbal Island and what issues they believe are important there. The study found that residents do not believe that basic human necessities, such as water quality and health care, are being met on the islands. In addition, residents are also concerned about various social issues that are developing on the island, partially due to the tourism industry's presence.