Exploring conservation discourses in the Galapagos Islands: A case study of the Galapagos giant tortoises

Francisco Benitez-Capistros*, J.J.A. Hugé, Farid Dahdouh-Guebas, Nico Koedam

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleAcademicpeer-review

Abstract

Conservation discourses change rapidly both at global and local scales. To be able to capture these shifts and the relationships between humans and nature, we focused on a local and iconic conservation case: the Galapagos giant tortoises (Chelonoidis spp.). We used the Q methodology to contextualize conservation for science and decision making and to explore the multidimensionality of the conservation concept in Galapagos. The results indicate four prevailing discourses: (1) Multi-actor governance; (2) giant tortoise and ecosystems conservation; (3) community governance; and (4) market and tourism centred. These findings allow us to identify foreseeable points of disagreement, as well as areas of consensus, and to discuss the implication of the findings to address socio-ecological conservation and sustainability challenges. This can help the different involved stakeholders (managers, scientists and local communities) to the design and apply contextualized conservation actions and policies to contribute to a better sustainable management of the archipelago.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)706-724
Number of pages19
JournalAmbio
Volume45
Issue number6
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Oct 2016
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Galapagos
  • conservation
  • biodiversity
  • discourse analysis
  • Q methodology

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