Conservation of Endemic Biodiversity of the Galapagos World Heritage Site.

The goal of this nearly $4 million UNESCO-coordinated project is to ensure that the Galapagos Islands retain their unique biodiversity. The Galapagos support almost 5,000 species of native plants and animals, including those that inspired Charles Darwin's theory on evolution. Yet this remarkable diversity is threatened by invasive species like rats, pigs, and goats that destroy native wildlife through predation, competition for food, and habitat destruction. The project builds on recently passed national legislation and institutes a comprehensive response to the invasive species threat.

UNESCO will work with FAO and the national government, together with the Charles Darwin Research Station and the Galapagos National Park in an innovative effort that unites State and international agencies with scientific institutions. Key activities will include community education, development of a quarantine/inspection system, eradication and control of certain invasive species populations, and development of a sustainable financing mechanism for Galapagos conservation. This project may be a model for addressing invasive species problems elsewhere, particularly as they affect small island developing States.