Multiple anthropogenic stressors in the Galápagos Islands' complex social–ecological system: Interactions of marine pollution, fishing pressure, and climate change with management recommendations

Anthropogenic stressors, including marine pollution, illegal fishing, and climate change, are threatening the ecological integrity of the Galápagos Islands. A recent review highlights how pollutants like oil spills, persistent organic compounds, metals, and ocean plastics are compromising the health and survival of endemic species, such as marine iguanas and Galápagos sea lions. Climate change exacerbates these impacts during El Niño events, pushing species toward population tipping points. The study emphasizes the need for multidisciplinary management strategies to mitigate these interconnected threats and preserve the Galápagos' unique biodiversity.

Alava, J. J., McMullen, K., Jones, J., Barragán-Paladines, M. J., Hobbs, C., Tirapé, A., Calle, P., Alarcón, D., Muñoz-Pérez, J. P., Muñoz-Abril, L., Townsend, K. A., Denkinger, J., Uyaguari, M., Domínguez, G. A., Espinoza, E., Reyes, H., Piedrahita, P., Fair, P., Galloway, T., et al. (2022). Multiple anthropogenic stressors in the Galápagos Islands’ complex social–ecological system: Interactions of marine pollution, fishing pressure, and climate change with management recommendations. Integrated Environmental Assessment and Management, 19(4), 870–895. https://doi.org/10.1002/ieam.4661