World Wildlife Fund's Gift Catalog - 2008-2009 - (Page 21) Did you know? Imagine a centipede almost two feet long, or an extraordinary lizard that swims. These and other fascinating animals don’t only exist in the imagination, but in the Galápagos … where Darwin was first inspired to create his Theory of Evolution. S O U T H A M E R I C A Galápagos Do tourists help or hurt a region like the Galápagos? If it is sustainable ecotourism, it can help conserve species and protect habitats. Ecotourism helps conservation by exposing visitors to natural wonders in a way that minimally impacts the environment. And ecotourism can provide jobs to local people, who otherwise might seek to exploit natural resources for survival. Area: 13 major islands and 115 small islets, located 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador Global threats: Population growth, non-native species, pollution and illegal fishing Key wildlife: Giant tortoise, Marine Iguana, BlueFooted Booby, rare snails, sharks, sea cucumbers and sea lion WWF solutions: Helped establish the 50,000 squaremile marine reserve; helped develop a 10-year plan to promote sustainable energy; helped develop sustainable fisheries, sustainable tourism and numerous other initiatives since 1961. Yellowtailed sturgeonfish swimming around coral, Galápagos WWF Staff on sea-cucumber fishing boat Adopt a Giant Tortoise The giant tortoise can live for 150 years. The oldest and most famous resident of the Galápagos region is a giant tortoise named “Lonesome George.” Eleven species of giant tortoise are found in the Galápagos, and many are now endangered. Saving them depends on urgent and effective conservation action. $100 $50 $25 CTGT VU N INNOVATIVE FISHERIES MANAGEMENT IN THE GALÁPAGOS Overfishing and illegal industrial fishing are serious threats to the delicate marine ecosystem in the Galápagos. They lead to depletion of fish and destruction of marine enviHarbour scene with fishermen and ronments, as well as serious brown pelicans on Isabela Island, Galápagos Islands, Ecuador. harm to local communities and their livelihoods. That’s why WWF is promoting innovative fisheries management, in partnership with local communities. We encourage the artisanal fishing culture that embraces sustainable fishing practices. We’re engaging local fishing cooperatives in decisionmaking, monitoring and management of key fisheries, while also increasing their capacity and ensuring their adherence to appropriate regulations. Our goal is a sustainable future for both wildlife and humans. Your donation will be used in general support of WWF’s conservation efforts around the world. 21 http://www.worldwildlife.org/ogc/species_SKU.cfm?cqs=CTGT&sc=AWY0900WCN11
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