The Ecuadorian government has reaffirmed that no mining activities are permitted in the Galápagos National Park, ensuring adherence to environmental protection laws.
The Galápagos National Park (GNP) is a formally protected area, and the Ministry of Environment and Energy (MAE) confirmed on February 27th that no mining of any kind is allowed within its boundaries. This clarification comes in response to inquiries regarding the implementation of the newly passed Organic Law for Strengthening Strategic Sectors in Mining and Energy, approved by the National Assembly on February 26th. The Ministry emphasized that the law expressly prohibits any intervention in protected areas, with a strong commitment to enforce this directive.
In addition to reiterating the ban on any form of metallic or non-metallic mining, the MAE specified that the law facilitates no mining projects, regardless of their scale, thereby closing off industrial mining opportunities. This stance reflects the government's dedication to safeguarding the unique ecological attributes of the Galápagos Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage site, which are critical for biodiversity and environmental stability.
Permits for the harvest of materials such as gravels and stones are only permitted for public works, which include projects like road construction and municipal infrastructure. This controlled approach aims to ensure that any resource extraction aligns with public needs while maintaining the integrity of the park's ecosystems and the global significance of the Galápagos environment.
