Galapagos May Get 'In Danger' Listing

[jpak]

http://www.lasvegassun.com/sunbin/stories/w-sa/2007/jun/22/062203852.html

WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP) - Ecuador says tourism is threatening the Galapagos Islands and has asked UNESCO to add the habitat that inspired the theory of evolution to its endangered list, the culture agency said Friday.

The U.N. agency's World Heritage Committee will consider Ecuador's request at a weeklong meeting that begins in New Zealand on Saturday, chairman Tumu te Heuheu said.

The Galapagos Islands, about 620 miles off Ecuador's Pacific coast, are home to unique animal species that inspired Charles Darwin's ideas on evolution. They are also Ecuador's top tourist attraction.

The country's president, Rafael Correa, says the islands are suffering an environmental crisis and has called for restrictions on tourists.

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[Maestro]

1. That is too bad that it has come to this, but I understand.

If it forces tourist agenices to respect the Galapagos more, I am for it. Ironically, I'd love to visit one day.