GCT’s 2022 successes
2022 has been a truly remarkable year, thanks to the amazing support from our donors. As we approach the end of 2022 we would like to share some of our achievements, which we couldn’t have accomplished without you.
Monaco Ocean Week
For many years, Galapagos Conservation Trust has been working towards increasing the protection of the oceans around the Galapagos Islands to benefit both wildlife and the local population. We were delighted to be invited to speak at Monaco Ocean Week on 23 March 2022, to discuss the scientific and advocacy efforts behind the creation of the new Hermandad Marine Reserve in the Eastern Tropical Pacific and to explore the tools needed for the effective management of pollution and overfishing.
Our impact
Tessa the Giant Tortoise storybook
Back In May, on World Tortoise Day, our Tessa the Giant Tortoise storybook was brought to life, thanks to the generous contributions towards our storybook crowdfunder. Aimed at younger children (5-8 years old), the book has been designed to inspire children in Galapagos to connect with nature and the unique animals they share it with. Through the eyes of Tessa, children will learn and reflect on the positive relationship they can have with nature through everyday environmentally friendly actions.
World Summit on Island Sustainability 2022
The World Summit on Island Sustainability was hosted from 26 – 30 June in Galapagos, at the Galapagos Science Center on San Cristobal island. During this international event, scientists shared their research in relation to island conservation and sustainability, including GCT’s President, Monty Halls, and our Head of Programmes, Dr Jen Jones.
The summit emphasised the need for island resilience, both in the ecosystem and in social contexts. Through case studies of Galapagos, along with other islands, the summit provided hope that by working together with local communities we can support Galapagos to become more sustainable and resilient.
Adopt Tessa the Giant Tortoise
Postal adoption pack includes: Tessa the Giant Tortoise: A Galapagos Journey storybook, leaflet, A3 poster, personalised certificate, postcard, stickers, activities and a bookmark (all printed on 100% recycled paper).
Sir David Attenborough awarded Ecuadorian National Order of Merit
In July, Sir David Attenborough was awarded the ‘National Order of Merit’, the highest decoration granted by Ecuador, at the Ecuadorian Embassy in London. GCT’s Chief Executive, Sharon Johnson, and President, Monty Halls, were both lucky enough to attend the ceremony, and were moved by the words of Sir David.
Galapagos Day 2022: Protecting Species & Preventing Extinctions
On Thursday 20 October we were delighted to return to the Royal Geographical Society for our first in-person Galapagos Day since 2019, with a programme of inspiring talks focussing on the threats to biodiversity in Galapagos.
We would like to thank all of our speakers, our partners and our wonderful volunteers who helped out on the night, along with everyone who attended in person and online.
How you can help
If you are not already, please consider becoming a member this Christmas to help play a vital part in the ongoing efforts to preserve and protect these incredible Islands and their unique flora and fauna.