Galápagos Museum and Conservation Center (GMCC) Proposal

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Abstract
The Galápagos Islands are a world-renowned living laboratory. For centuries, these islands have drawn in not only scientists and conservationists but also passionate nature enthusiasts, who seek biodiversity found nowhere else on Earth. However, only a few know the intricacies between tourism and conservation of this UNESCO World Heritage. For instance, two of the sustainable development problems these islands face today are 1) a saturated tourism industry, due to lack of tourism products diversification and 2) the disconnection of its population to the natural wonders of the Galapagos Islands, in part, because of the high costs of tours around the islands, which are calibrated to foreign visitors. To address these two problems my project seeks to create the first Natural History Museum in the Galápagos. Indeed, natural history museums foster understanding of the natural world, and promote nature appreciation. However, due to the strict prohibition on collecting specimens in the Galápagos Islands, a conventional museum is impractical. This is why the focus of the museum will be on bioacoustics and biological soundscapes, aiming to create a dynamic and immersive educational space showcasing the rich diversity of sounds within the archipelago's unique ecosystem. Furthermore, such a venue will provide a new product in an otherwise saturated tourism market. The museum, to be located on Santa Cruz Island, aims to diversify tourism, foster local engagement, generate employment, conduct scientific research, and educate future scientists through immersive experiences. Additional benefits will include bridging the gap between the local community and their islands and contributing to the long-term appreciation and protection of the natural heritage of the Galápagos Islands.