Legislation setting new policy for the Galápagos Islands has sparked protest from the archipelago’s residents and politicians, and has prompted scientists and conservationists to warn of destructive environmental impacts. The new law, enacted in June, addresses Galápagos policies ranging from workers’ wage scales to tourism-operator licensing to the possible adjustment of natural-area boundaries. Concerns about its possible effects have sprung up on the archipelago and mainland alike. When the Ecuadorian National Assembly held its final debate on the legislation on June 9, island residents staged a demonstration that shut down the airport on the Galápagos Island of San Cristóbal. As the Assembly passed the law three days later, residents left their places of work to protest, paralyzing tourism activity in the archipelago. And... [Log in to read more]