(News release from the Charles Darwin Foundation)

 

Solid Waste Recycling Stations on Floreana Island

2011-06-29

 

Last June 8, the Charles Darwin Foundation (CDF), the Galápagos-Ecuador Foundation and the Floreana Island Parish Government launched the "Strengthening of the Solid Waste Management System" campaign.

During the launch event, attended by local authorities, special guests and the community at large, technologist Max Freire, President of the Parish Government, made a formal presentation of the analysis of island waste management that was conducted last year and on which the campaign is based. The program also included unveiling of a logo, slogan and mascot that will be part of the awareness-raising activities to be carried out on the island.

Cristina Georgii, CDF Education for Sustainable Development Coordinator, took the floor to emphasize the importance of community participation in the solid waste management process. She explained: "Our commitment is to the all-round restoration of Floreana with community participation, by providing tools to build local capacity in order to enhance the quality of life of the islanders." In conclusion, she expressed her appreciation to the Floreana Parish Government and Galápagos-Ecuador Foundation for their joint efforts.

In turn, Galápagos-Ecuador Foundation representative Veronica Santamaría explained to the community the importance of the six new recycling stations, whose primary function is to get the community and visitors to the island to cooperate in solid waste management.

Shortly before the end of the event, the community enjoyed two puppet shows, "The Three Finches" and "Lucy, the Recycler," that were produced and acted by the young students of the Amazonas School.

In the next few months, various activities are planned with the main theme of proper garbage disposal and recycling with the participation of the community.

 

CNH TOURS ADDS:

Floreana Island is the least populated in Galapagos, with about 100 people living there.   Waste is even an issue in such small places, and every effort to manage it / reduce it is welcome.   This is an example of the work of the Charles Darwin Foundation - it's not all research!