Galapagos life foundation about us

About Us

Our Objectives

Our Objectives

  • Support Conservation and Sustainable Ocean Resource Management:
    Our primary objective is to provide grant funding and other forms of support to promote the conservation and sustainable use of ocean resources in Galapagos.
  • Contribute to a Sustainable Future for Galapagos:
    We aim to actively contribute to the stewardship of a sustainable future for both the people and the environment of Galapagos.
  • Ensure Financial Responsibility and Integrity:
    We are committed to maintaining fiduciary responsibility and the highest standards of financial integrity in the administration of the Galapagos Fund’s finances.
Our Vision

Our Vision

We envision the people of Galapagos taking ownership of their ocean and islands, securing enduring, sustainable advantages for future generations. Within this vision, we nurture an environment that fosters novel ideas, nurtures their development, encourages inventive collaborations, and enhances the influence of both individuals and collectives.

Our Story

Our Story

In January 2022, a significant milestone was reached in the world of conservation with the establishment of the Hermandad Marine Reserve. This marked a crucial step towards protecting the pristine ecosystems of the Galapagos Islands. But the commitment didn’t stop there. Alongside the creation of this marine reserve, there was another important announcement – the inception of a financial mechanism designed to guarantee its successful implementation. At the heart of this visionary endeavor is the Galapagos Life Fund, poised to play a pivotal role in the conservation of this unique archipelago.

As a testament to its commitment, the Galapagos Life Fund will find its home on Santa Cruz Island within the Galapagos archipelago. Operating as a non-profit organization, it will adhere to the regulations set forth by the Ecuadorian Government. This strategic location and legal framework will enable the fund to work closely with local communities, scientists, and environmentalists to make a lasting impact on the conservation of this ecological wonder.

Hermandad Marine Reserve

The new Hermandad Marine Reserve in the Galapagos Islands is part of Ecuador’s national system of protected natural areas. Thanks to Hermandad, Ecuador’s protected marine area has increased by 5.5%, from 13.3 to 19.3 million hectares. This marine reserve covers an area of 60,000 square kilometers, serving as a corridor that connects the Galapagos Marine Reserve with the Costa Rican island of Cocos.

Galápagos Life Fund Structure

Galápagos Life Fund Structure

Our Team

Board of Directors:

The Fund’s governance is overseen by an eleven-member Board of Directors. The main role of the GLF Board of Directors is to provide guidance and advice in the operations of the Fund. The members of our Board come from different countries and backgrounds, which enables them to contribute their expertise in a wide range of areas.

  • Ministry of Environment

    Co-Chair

  • Ministry of National Defense

  • Ministry of Production, Foreign Trade, Investments, and Fisheries

  • Ministry of Foreign Affairs

  • Galapagos Government Council

  • Robert Weary

    Robert Weary

    Board Director & Treasurer

    Oceans Finance Company B.V.

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  • Susana Cardenas

    Susana Cardenas

    Board Director / Co-Chair

    San Francisco de Quito University

    Academia

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  • Giuseppe Di Carlo

    Giuseppe Di Carlo

    Board Director

    Pew Bertarelli Ocean Legacy

    NGO

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  • Andrés Ordóñez GLF

    Andrés Ordóñez

    Board Director

    Galapagos Tourism Chamber (CAPTURGAL)

    Tourism Sector

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  • Robert Roeder

    Board Director

    Dona Bertarelli Philanthropy

    Proponents

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  • Alexis Moncayo glf

    Alexis Moncayo

    Board Director

    Fisheries Associations

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Our Staff