The Network is a voluntary initiative that currently brings together certified artisanal fishers from the Galapagos Marine Reserve, alongside representatives from the tourism sector, restaurant partners, academia, conservation organizations, and the scientific community. Together, they work to promote responsible fishing practices and foster collaboration in support of healthy marine ecosystems and thriving local communities.
A key objective of the Network is to recognize and increase the value of artisanal fishers’ efforts by strengthening fair and responsible markets for seafood sourced from sustainable fisheries. To support this goal, Fundación Jocotoco and the Charles Darwin Foundation, together with their technology partner ShellCatch, have developed a digital platform that directly connects artisanal fishers with buyers, including restaurants and local businesses, providing access to traceable, transparent, and responsibly sourced seafood products.
As part of this effort, a series of onboarding workshops were held with members of the artisanal fishing sector. Participants contributed valuable feedback to improve the platform while strengthening their skills in the use of digital tools and other technologies that support the responsible monitoring and recording of fishing activities.
The initiative culminated last week with the official launch event of the Responsible Fishing Network, bringing together fishers, partner organizations, and stakeholders involved in marine conservation. The event provided an opportunity to present the Network’s vision, commitments, and roadmap, while also creating space for dialogue, networking, and the exchange of experiences among founding members.
"We firmly believe that marine conservation in Galapagos is only possible when we work hand in hand with fishing communities. This Network represents a collective effort that combines technology, transparency, and shared commitment to strengthen responsible and sustainable fisheries for future generations"
The initiative is supported by Save The Blue Five and Bezos Earth Fund, strategic partners that invest in local solutions to advance marine conservation, sustainable fisheries, and the well-being of coastal communities.
"The Responsible Fishing Network is an example of collective action driven by local stakeholders and aligned with a broader vision for transforming Galapagos' ocean-based food system into one that is more prosperous, sustainable, equitable, and resilient"
"The sustainability of fisheries depends on strong partnerships among communities, science, and conservation. The Responsible Fishing Network of Galapagos demonstrates how local leadership can create lasting benefits for both the ocean and the people who depend on it"
"Galapagos is a global example of a sustainable blue economy, where productive activities, biodiversity conservation, and community well-being go hand in hand. The Responsible Fishing Network helps strengthen and showcase the responsible practices that artisanal fishers and other local stakeholders have developed over the years, promoting greater transparency, traceability, and recognition of their commitment to sustainability"
The Responsible Fishing Network of Galapagos aims to become a model of collaboration that connects artisanal fishers, the private sector, science, and conservation. By promoting more sustainable, transparent, and traceable fisheries, the Network seeks to generate benefits for both marine ecosystems and the communities that depend on them, while contributing to the conservation and management efforts led by the Galapagos National Park Directorate.