Galápagos Life Fund Shares Its Marine Conservation Financing Experience at Premios Verdes 2026

GLF, October 27, 2026

The Galápagos Life Fund (GLF) participated in Premios Verdes 2026, an international event that recognizes and showcases sustainability initiatives, sharing its experience as a long-term financing mechanism for marine conservation in Galápagos.

As part of the event, held in Cuenca, Ecuador, from October 19 to 22, GLF hosted the panel discussion “The Story Behind the Sustainable Financing Mechanism for Marine Conservation.” The discussion brought together representatives from the public sector, the scientific community, and civil society to explore the key milestones that led to the creation of the Hermandad Marine Reserve and the establishment of a financing mechanism designed to support its long-term conservation.

Moderated by Susana Cárdenas, the panel featured Alberto Andrade, a representative of Frente Insular; Alex Hearn, a researcher at Universidad San Francisco de Quito; Christian Sevilla, Director of Ecosystems at the Galápagos National Park Directorate; and Mónica Calvopiña, Executive Director of the Galápagos Life Fund.

Throughout the discussion, panelists emphasized the importance of institutional coordination, scientific expertise, and civil society engagement in advancing marine conservation. They also addressed the challenges of effectively managing marine protected areas and the need for sustainable financing mechanisms to support conservation efforts over time.

 

During the event, GLF also recognized five community projects supported through its First Call for Proposals: Gills Club, Orca Club, Galápagos Acoustic Office, COPAHISA, and Darwin Chest. This first funding round allocated USD 3.9 million to community-led initiatives that contribute to marine conservation and sustainable development across the archipelago.

Another key moment was a symbolic signing ceremony reaffirming GLF’s planned funding commitments totaling USD 180 million over the next 15 years. Of this amount, USD 90 million is intended to strengthen public management of marine reserves, while the remaining USD 90 million will support conservation and sustainable development projects led by organizations and local communities.

Premios Verdes 2026 provided an international platform for sharing experiences, building connections, and advancing solutions to environmental and social challenges. GLF’s participation helped bring greater visibility to a collaborative conservation financing model that brings together different sectors to protect Galápagos’ marine ecosystems and support the well-being of its communities.