Wind power on San Cristobal Island

The Galapagos Islands are home to the unique flora and fauna that inspired Charles Darwin to create his theory of evolution. The islands are also synonymous with a need for conservation, with the whole archipelago being named a UNESCO World Heritage Site and strict rules about what you can do, where you can go and how you can travel.

Dealing with an increasing human population is one of the biggest threats facing the island today. However, efforts are being made to limit mankind’s impact and preserve the pristine ecosystems here. One of these efforts is in the shape of the 2.4MW San Cristobal Wind Project, which is gradually replacing diesel-powered electricity.

The aim of the wind project is to make San Cristobal and some of the surrounding islands more eco-friendly, reducing emissions and cutting the risk of potentially catastrophic oil tanker spills in a highly protected environment.

It is the first stage of a wider project supported by Ecuador and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). Some of the world’s largest energy suppliers are also backing the project, knowing that success here will have a high profile and help to boost the reputation of more sustainable energy sources worldwide. The three 800kw turbines are producing a large part of the island’s power and are a real talking point too.

San Cristobal is the easternmost of the islands if you look at a Galapagos map and one of the oldest geologically, consisting of three or four fused but extinct volcanoes. It’s one of the best Galapagos Islands to visit on any tour and well worth a visit.

Nearby Santa Cruz Island is the most populated and home to the archipelago’s largest urban population. It’s another of the best Galapagos Islands to visit, although they are all equally deserving of your time when touring the islands.

On there is a recently built recycling plant that has been helping to recycle or reduce around 40% of the island’s waste. And with the population expected to double here in the next ten years, it is another important step in the right direction.

The Galapagos Islands deserve to be preserved as close to possible in their natural condition. One of the world’s most unique environments, it’s important that we’re doing all we can to limit our impact on the best Galapagos Islands to visit.

 

Take a look of these tour programs:

1. Galapagos Itinerary: Enchanted Luxury East and West Galapagos Islands Cruise
2. Galapagos Tour: Stunning Galapagos Tour
3. The Andes  Cotopaxi Ride and Climb
4. Peru Tour: Family Adventure Tour
5. Ecuador Tour: Otavalo Market