Effects of tourism growth in a UNESCO World Heritage Site: resource-based livelihood diversification in the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

Tourism growth in the Galápagos Islands, while benefiting local economies, poses challenges to sustainable development by constraining traditional livelihoods like fishing and agriculture. A study reveals that while tourism offers diversification opportunities, its appeal varies significantly among residents, with notable obstacles hindering transitions. Using a mixed-methods approach, researchers analyzed perceptions, motivations, and actions of farmers and fishers on the three most populated islands. The findings underscore the need to balance conservation goals with tourism expansion to ensure long-term sustainability in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Burbano, D. V., & Meredith, T. C. (2020). Effects of tourism growth in a UNESCO World Heritage Site: resource-based livelihood diversification in the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador. Journal of Sustainable Tourism, 29(8), 1270–1289. https://doi.org/10.1080/09669582.2020.1832101