When hearing “the Galapagos Islands” one immediately thinks of Charles Darwin and his theory of evolution, where he emphasized that both populations and species change over time [1]. Thus, as humans, we must adapt to the conditions our environment requires, especially now as we face environmental changes and the extinction of various species.

The famous Galapagos Islands – also known as the Enchanted Islands –  are located 1000 km from the Pacific coast, and host tourists from all over the world every year. This archipelago is made up of thirteen islands and more than a hundred islets [2]. It was the inspiration for the British naturalist Charles Darwin in carrying out his research. Indeed, the archipelago hosts a scientific station to study the local environment and the conservation of fauna and flora, which is named after him.

Fig.1: Walls of the Galapagos Islands green airport. Author,2024

To travel to this natural paradise, the first stop is continental Ecuador. Quito or Guayaquil are the only gateways to fly to the Enchanted Islands. Before landing the crew always disinfects the hand luggage compartments to prevent the introduction of any insects or viruses that could endanger the archipelago’s species.

While landing, you can observe the stunning landscapes from the window that highlight the natural beauty of this place, which is declared a Natural Heritage of Humanity. The pilot informs you that you are arriving at your destination and that the local time is one hour behind continental Ecuador.

Upon disembarking, you will feel a slightly humid and sticky climate and may start to remove your clothes for comfort. As you walk towards the airport facilities, it is common to encounter the island’s native vegetation and animals that are ready to be captured with your camera. However, it is essential to remember the three essential rules in the Galapagos regarding animals: keep a two-meter distance, do not touch them, and do not feed them.

One of the first animals you will encounter is the unique yellow iguana, native to Baltra Island, where the first ecological airport in South America and the Caribbean is located.

It has approximately 400 solar panels and a wind power system, making it the first airport with 100% sustainable energy and 75% recycled material, including recycled material from oil field pipes brought from the Ecuadorian Amazon. Additionally, the walls and floors have been constructed with local wood and volcanic rocks extracted from the same island and there is no need for air conditioning due to its strategic construction that benefits from the wind currents, using the sea breezes.  Since the Galapagos Islands do not have a potable water supply, the airport is fed by a desalination plant that takes seawater and processes it for potable use [3].

Fig. 2:  Solar panels of the Galapagos Islands green airport.  Author,2024

This eco-friendly airport has been awarded prestigious prizes and certifications, including LEED Gold, recognizing it as one of the world’s best sustainable buildings. It has also received the Latin America Green Awards, which acknowledge a company’s dedication to the environment and its actions to protect it. Furthermore, it was awarded the Airport Carbon Accreditation at Level 2 ‘Reduction’, making it the first in South America to reduce its carbon footprint [4].

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Cover- and preview image:  Seymour Airport runway, Baltra Island. Author 2024.