Evaluation of environmental management systems in the Galapagos National Park

Abstract

Introduction:  The Galapagos Archipelago Islands are in the Pacific Ocean 1,000 km away from Ecuador, because of the great biodiversity of species has been the primary basis for the formulation of Charles Darwin's theory of evolution. Declared by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, these islands have faced significant challenges due to the exponential growth of tourism and the introduction of invasive species, irreversibly affecting the ecosystem. The main objective of this study is to analyze the impact of tourism on the ecosystems of the Galapagos Islands and propose the implementation of environmental management systems (EMS), such as ISO 14001, to mitigate these impacts and ensure the conservation of their biodiversity. To implement the methodology, a qualitative analysis was conducted that included a review of scientific literature and documentation on tourism in Galapagos, as well as the evaluation of reports on biodiversity and the environmental effects of tourism. Aspects of conservation and environmental management were analyzed to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities for EMS implementation in the Galapagos archipelago. Based on the results obtained, the findings indicate that although tourism has generated significant economic benefits, it has also led to habitat alteration, increased waste, and overexploitation of natural resources. The implementation of environmental management systems and ISO 14.0001 could facilitate the regulation of tourist numbers, promote sustainable practices, and improve waste management. The need to evaluate and raise awareness among tourism operators and visitors about the importance of conserving ecosystems was highlighted. In conclusion, the adoption of environmental management systems is essential to mitigate the impact of tourism in the Galapagos Islands, ensuring the protection of its biodiversity and a sustainable balance between economic development and ecological conservation. General area of study: Environmental Management and sustainable tourism. Specific study area: implementation of ISO 14001 and other environmental management systems. Type of article: Systematic bibliographic review.