Assessing water quality in small islands. The Santa Cruz (Galapagos) case study

Galapagos islands are one of most important biodiversity hot spot in the world, whose importance was recognized also by UNESCO in the World Heritage list. Despite the great effort for their conservation, the increasing human pressure and the consequent pollution, in particular of the water resources, are threatening the environment and the health of the inhabitants. The results of the cooperation project "Health protection and prevention of anthropic pollution risks" are presented here. The main water pollution sources in the island of Santa Cruz were identified, an extensive water monitoring was carried out and public local authorities were supported to improve water resources management.Galapagos islands are one of most important biodiversity hot spot in the world, whose importance was recognized also by UNESCO in the World Heritage list. Despite the great effort for their conservation, the increasing human pressure and the consequent pollution, in particular of the water resources, are threatening the environment and the health of the inhabitants. The results of the cooperation project "Health protection and prevention of anthropic pollution risks" are presented here. The main water pollution sources in the island of Santa Cruz were identified, an extensive water monitoring was carried out and public local authorities were supported to improve water resources management. © 2015 Taylor & Francis Group