Effects of tourism growth in a UNESCO World Heritage Site: resource-based livelihood diversification in the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

In the Galapagos, as elsewhere, tourism is promoted as a means of reconciling biodiversity conservation interests with the economic aspirations of local populations. However, the rapid expansion of tourism has triggered concerns about both social and biophysical impacts that may threaten sustainable development of the islands. These concerns, coupled with mounting constraints imposed by conservation regulations, have particular significance for two locally important resource-based livelihoods: fishing and agriculture. This paper examines recent patterns of livelihood diversification within these two sectors, and explores reasons behind livelihood decisions that people make, either to maintain existing resource-based activities or to transition into emergent livelihood opportunities. We examine drivers and inhibitors of diversification, focusing particularly on opportunities associated with tourism growth. Through a mixed-methods approach, we explore the perceptions, motivations, and actions of those still engaged in farming and fishing on the Galapagos' three most populated islands. Results show that many are drawn to tourism, but there are notable differences in the appeal of, and the obstacles to, diversification. Considering the importance of both conservation and tourism in this iconic destination, these findings have significant implications for the role of sustainable tourism on the islands, and for the optimization of the conservation-tourism alliance elsewhere.