At Galapagos Day 2009, Sir David
Attenborough, GCT President, Andrew Marr, and CDF's director of technical assistance, Felipe Cruz, appealed for help to create a 'Galapagos model' for sustainable development around the world.
Sir David Attenborough, Andrew Marr and Felipe Cruz (photo. Kevin Murphy)
Galapagos Day 2009 was held on 15 September at the Royal Geographical Society.
GCT is extremely grateful to Steppes Discovery, and IWC for supporting this event."
GCT organised a three-way open discussion between Sir David Attenborough, Galapagos-born Felipe Cruz and chairman, Andrew Marr, before an audience of GCT members and supporters.
Sir David said the islands were at a tipping point: "Even though Galapagos is recognised as one of the best preserved tropical archipelagos in the world, however, due to the consequences of human intervention, many species are now threatened with extinction. With prompt and holistic action, Galapagos can provide a model of sustainability for world; without it this natural treasure will be lost for ever".
When discussing the inexorable rise in the number of tourist visitors, Andrew Marr asked Sir David whether he was comfortable with the fact that visitor numbers to Galapagos might have to be rationed - only available for those who could afford the high price. Sir David replied that he was, provided there would be access for genuine students and researchers.
Sir David described Galapagos as: "A fabulous place. An astounding place where, for example, birds will perch on your head and take your hair. The birds realise you are an intruder but they don't care."
Felipe Cruz praised his country's government for its tremendous support for Galapagos conservation: "Ecuador is the only country in the world which has given the environment constitutional rights."
Felipe Cruz saw Galapagos as a "thermometer for the world. In the last 15-20 years I have seen dramatic changes in weather." His greatest wish "would be for my son, Rashid (who joined his father on the stage, ed), to be celebrating Galapagos Day well into the future ".
